Shakespeare in Clark Park presents As You Like It

The future right around the corner

Directed by Ontaria Kim Wilson, a graduate student at Temple University’s School of Theater, this As You Like It looks 10 years on to explore the play’s themes of exile, love, and community in the aftermath of our current political moment. To Wilson, the play’s hints of dystopia seemed to resonate with our modern tensions, what with its tyrannical duke who banishes those he deems a threat, and the exiles in the forest who must hide their true identities to survive.

“When revisiting the play, I realized that there was a parallel to our current political and social climate layered on top of the ever-present theme of love,” says Wilson. “I also realized that community and the fight for our liberties were present throughout as well. Shakespeare was clearly onto something, and I don’t think he realized he’d reach into the now of 2024.”

The production features a mix of professional actors and community performers, as well as a host of contributions from Philadelphia-based writers and artists. Local composer and community music leader Pax Ressler composes an original anthem for the play, and the opening and closing nights will feature pre-show poetry shares developed from local community workshops led by resident teaching artist Warren Longmire. It’s an approach that aims to center the voices in our communities, to speak to the kinds of systems in which we hope to live.

“I wondered what our country would look like 10 years from now if we continue to give way to systems that are not loving, diverse, and truly for the people,” says Spencer. “I also thought of the beautiful communities that embrace humanity, otherness, love, diversity, equity, inclusion, and unity, where everyone is free to exist and live abundantly.”

Shakespeare in Clark Park’s As You Like It runs July 24-28, 2024, with pre-show poetry shares on July 24 and July 28. As always, audiences are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs and enjoy a picnic before the show.