Sometimes it’s the dialogue, other times it’s the scenery. This time it’s the performers.
Almost every show has something that stands out -- and in Riverside Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s THE WINTER’S TALE, the cast brings the play to a completely new level.
A love story, beginning in jealousy and death, this play keeps the audience on their toes until the very end. Generally described as a comedy, the play is filled with more drama than what most would call humor; however it offers something for any audience to enjoy.
Dennis Fox does an outstanding job as King Leontes. Funny, yet realistic in his portrayal, his emotions are so intense that the audience is able to empathize with this character as he expresses anger, disappointment, jealousy and fear.
The Shepherd (played by Ron Clark), his son (played by Adam Verner), and Autolycus (played by Patrick DuLaney) provide comic relief. Autolycus is one of my favorite characters. DuLaney not only adds his own flair to the role, but he also manages to keep the audience laughing every time he appears on stage.
Some other standouts include Perdita (played by Cristina Panfilio), Polixenes (Tim Budd) and Paulina (the irrepressible Jody Hovland).
As I watched the ensemble, I was moved by their performances as well. Despite the fact that they are not necessarily speaking, each cast member displays such passion and expresses themselves fully. Whether it be through interactions with other characters or simply with movement — all do an excellent job.
The original music, composed by Don Chamberlain and used between scenes, helps to set the mood -- sometimes reflecting intensity, fear, sadness or joy. Also, the sound design (by an uncredited artist or two) is very effective. I was especially impressed by the sounds of thunder roaring and lightening clapping fill the auditorium.
I enjoyed the way the production itself was put together. The Storyteller, named Time (played by Martin Andrews), is a device of director Mark Hunter that proves successful. Time "writes" the story as it is being acted out, providing narration, and Andrews also plays a variety of roles throughout the production. He does an excellent job throughout.
A few additional things I noted were the costumes and choreography. The costumes (by Colleen Combs McGonegle) were fitting for both the time period and the social standing of the characters. For example, royalty wore fur, while those in poverty wore plainer outfits. The choreography was also very appropriate for the specific dancers performing, particularly during the Shepherd's shearing dance.
Despite being washed out of their original location, Riverside Theatre continues to impress no matter where their location. If you’re interested in watching a truly great performance by a great cast, THE WINTER’S TALE is it.
