twelfth night -- the review!

William Shakespeare penned Twelfth Night circa 1600. Four hundred and seven years later, Shakespeare NorthWest presents a delightful, engaging production of this beloved gender-bending comedy.

The story follows Viola (Offspring #1!) who is separated from her twin brother Sebastian by a tragic shipwreck. She assumes the identity of a man (named Cesario) in order to work in the court of Orsino, a good lookin' duke with whom she falls in love. The duke has set his sights on the fair Olivia, and orders Cesario to be the go-between in his courting of her. Olivia instead falls for Cesario, the "man" Viola is disguised as.

To add to the confusion, several people in the court decide to trick Malvolio, Olivia's pompous steward, into believing that Olivia is in love with him.

Twelfth Night has comedy! romance! pathos! -- all played to good effect by the fine ensemble cast. It is often difficult to single out actors in an ensemble, but of course not for this reviewer! Offspring #1 was outstanding as Viola/Cesario! Her comedic timing was wonderful, and she imbued her character with both innocence and charm.

Twelfth Night runs through August 19th at Edgewater Park in Mt Vernon. If you're in the area, go enjoy some Shakespeare under the stars!