Company C shook up the Metro Theatre last night with their performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. The Year III students of the Canadian College of Performing Arts, led by Stratford director Darcy Evans, chose to set the play in the 1920s. The dance between storylines of the servants and the nobles is certainly reminiscent of the popular TV series Downton Abbey, although Shakespeare’s comedic stunts and provocative plotlines would never hold up to Lady Grantham’s standards of propriety. But what great entertainment for a 21st century audience!
The shining addition of Company C’s production of Twelfth Night is the enhancement of the character Feste. Shakespeare’s fool, played by Avery Brennan, weaves the multiple storylines together with humour, joy, and music. The play begins with the unforgettable line, “If music be the food of love, play on,” and so Feste begins this production playing the piano at a lavish party with company fit for the opulent staterooms of Downton Abbey.
The duet between piano and voice continues throughout the play, whether to express the sorrows of Orisno’s unrequited love, or to mock the afflicted Malvolio. Act II begins with nothing less than the unconquerable Feste beating a drum, blowing a whistle, and shaking a bell wrapped around his ankle. Reminiscent of Dick Van Dyke’s performance of Bert in Mary Poppins, Avery brings an honest joy to a mostly mischievous character.
The entire production was a great accomplishment for new Canadian artists about to launch their careers. The clever multilevel set was not only appealing but essential for comedic timing. The cast sunk their teeth into Shakespeare and came out triumphant. This show is not to be missed!
Twelfth Night
November 9-10
$15-$24