While the plot needs no explanation, the script itself is unconventional enough to warrant some delving into. Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, the original script was first performed in 1987 and encouraged improv so each production could have its own flavor. The Jesters’ Guild, however, is performing a revised version of the play released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the cult classic which modernizes the feature and integrates some of the best-ever ad-libs from the play’s many runs. Of course, the updated script does not preclude free-form acting and the actors in question localize and embellish the source material enough to keep it refreshing. The resulting concoction? Hamlet Pierogies on a French fry sandwich, just As You Yinzers Like It.
In a three-man-turned-four-man play, it is imperative that each part be performed passionately, and this production disappoints not. David “Not that David Lynch” Lynch offers a distinctly jovial performance, often times accentuating his co-stars’ ridiculousness without sacrificing the joy or flow of the action. His brother, Derek Lynch perfectly juxtaposes pompous academia with ignorant fraternity truly befitting of Shakespeare (Abridged)’s most preeminent scholar in the City of Abridges. Aaron Beilstein switches gender so seamlessly you’d swear that bearded, blonde, black lady were another actor entirely. The chemistry between the three cements each great individual performance into a Comedy of not Errors, but Success. And Jim Falba, who plays the Stage Manager while also being the Stage manager, contributes a nice piece of deadpan humor to the others’ more flamboyant approaches.
Somebody famous once said, “All the word’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players.” This production epitomizes that wisdom, revealing the most important actors of all to be the audience. The Lynches and Beilstein bounce off each other and the audience with such bombastic vigor as to shatter, even obliterate the fourth wall.
The stage makes up for its blandness with great gag props, many of which are particular to this show. Without even a Director (at least mentioned in the playbill), the production is as indie as it gets, bordering on fringe but hilarious enough to appeal to Shakespeare scholars and novices alike. Reinforcing this hilarity is fight choreographer Johnathan Beckas, who turned a few fight scenes on their heads to parody stage fighting conventions.
Don’t expect an education but do prepare to learn a thing or two as the Jesters’ Guild seemingly conjure (approximately) Shakespeare back onto the stage. If you wish to support local theater by becoming part of the act, head over to the Glitterbox Theater in Oakland for an uproarious time.
P.S. If you read this far or happened to scroll here (as is more likely) and want to a copy of Shakespeare’s, well, complete works, wear your Chuck Taylors to the performance and enter a competition for one. Or just read it all online, it’s public domain.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) runs at the Glitterbox through July 22. For tickets and more information click here.
Categories: Archived Reviews