Under the Greenwood Tree

Under the Greenwood Tree is playing at the Flea Theater located at 41 White Street. It runs ninety minute with no intermission. The schedule is August 8 thru August 18, 2013.

It is a re-imaging of Shakespeare classic “As You Like It” done with music. The original was written in 1599. The musical uses the original Shakespeare text. Original score is by Tyler. The musical is under the direction of Tyler Phillips and Carly Howard.

Orlando (Brett Benowitz) wants what is due him after his father dies. His brother Oliver (Andy deRado) is reluctant to give it to him but he does.

Rosalind (Carly Howard) is being persecuted by her uncle Duke Frederick (Sean Griffin). He has taken away the kingdom from her father and has banished him.

Orlando and Rosalind flee to the forest of order fearing for their lives. Celia (Kendra Jo Brook) her cousin goes with her.

They fall in love and marry along with two other couples.

All’s Well That Ends Well, ops was Shakespeare the one to say that too?

In between the story the actors sing and dance. This is a multi-task cast, each playing several instruments.

I liked the musical but it would be better if it was one or the other. A play or a musical, the story loses its impact going back and forth. The music is good and the actors in the cast are great. Another problem is the stage is too long. When the cast is all over the stage you don’t know who to watch for fear you might miss something.

The set is not fancy but I liked it. There is a ladder hanging from the ceiling. There are little nic nacs on it like a teddy and 45 records. On the floor are different musical instruments.

The price is right. It’s $15 on line and $20 in person.

Review by Rozanna Radakovich.