Parson’s Nose Theater (PNT) opened “Clearly Classic: Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night” last weekend. “Clearly Classic” is a new PNT series which includes a brief introduction to a classic play’s characters, language, and themes, enhancing its enjoyment for modern audiences. This is an original 90-minute adaptation Lance Davis, who co-directs with Gary Lamb.
Shakespeare wrote Twelfth Night over 400 years ago, about a pair of twins (Sebastian and Viola) who were shipwrecked and each believed the other drowned. Viola disguises as a man to be employed by Duke Orsino, but she looks very much like her twin brother, capturing the heart of young Olivia. The confusion that ensues is entertaining, furthered by Olivia’s silly house staff and her steward Malvolio.
At PNT the cast includes James Calvert as Orsino, Mary Chalon as Maria, Lance Davis as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, Taylor Hawthorne as Olivia, Jordan Knapp as Viola, Gary Lamb as Sir Toby Belch, Cameron Molina as The Officer, Paul Perri as Antonio, and Jordan Wall as Sebastian.
Davis’ adaptation condenses the story into two 45-minutes acts, which seem to go by quickly as the story is delivered with humor, charm, and clarity. Every member of the cast is good, but John Rafter Lee shines as a hilarious Malvolio, adding priceless gestures and overall physical comedy. Barry Gordon, as Feste, gets to impress the audience with more than his acting, as his voice charms during a few Italian songs.
This is a lovely production of Twelfth Night. The introduction really helps to get one’s mind prepared for the performance. The cast’s conversational style makes the dialogue easy to understand, and there are plenty of times when the audience laughs heartily. PNT’s space is intimate and comfortable, where you can just relax and enjoy this story written by one of the greatest minds of all times.
Twelfth Night runs through June 10, 2018, performing Friday and Saturdays at 8 pm, and Sundays at 3 pm. A post-show Q&A’s will be held with the cast after the performances on May 25th and June 2nd.
Parson’s Nose Theater is located at 95 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101. Ticket prices are $30 for Adults, $20 for Seniors, and $15 for Students. Make reservations online at parsonsnose.com or by calling (626) 403-7667. The show is recommended for ages 12+.
Photo: Rafter Lee, Hawthorne, Lamb, Chalon, Gordon, in PNT’s Twelfth Night / Credit: Parson’s Nose
Plumbid – a new and innovative way to market and sell your home!
Thanks for reading about ‘Twelfth Night’ now performing at Parson’s Nose Theater! On another matter, how would you like a way to get 12% or more over asking price for your home? We recently sold a private view home for that amount over the list price because of the Plumbid bidding process. And buyers were solid — we made sure they were fully qualified and informed about the property before they could bid. Check here, or call or text the deFazio’s for more information at 626-825-9955.And, if you are moving to Pasadena, we can help you. With more than 50 years of combined experience, we know the territory and can find the best property for you.Visit us at Around Town Pasadena for more about Pasadena restaurants and food, great real estate, art and culture, and shopping and fashion. We post new and exciting features for you four or five times a week.