Saturday, July 29, 2006

A Summer of Shakespeare

That is two Shakespeare plays I have seen this summer. The Merchant of Venice at the Oxford Castle while in Oxford this past June, and The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which I just saw this evening at Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan.

MFJ was a true gentlemen and treated Rilla and myself to the show. It was absolutely fabulous!

This was the first Shakespeare comedy I have seen, and it definitely made me laugh. Although, I think Ril takes the cake for the most laughter of the evening.

Here is a quick Synopsis:

Valentine and Proteus are friends, who both find themselves in love with beautiful women. Valentine is in love with Slyvia, a lady who is betrothed to an ambassador that her father likes, and Proteus falls for a girl, Julia. However, Sylvia's father does not approve of Valentine and wishes for her to marry the ambassador. Valentine and Slyvia plan to elope in the night. Valentine shares his secret with Proteus, who has become smitten with Slyvia. Proteus betrays Valentine and tells Slyvia's father, the General, of the plan. The General foils Valentines plan, and banishes him. Proteus attempts to woo Slyvia, but alas, she will have none of it. Julia diguises herself as a Page to go and see Proteus, however learns of his love for Slyvia. In the end, everyone is re-united with their loves, and they all live happily ever after. Huzzah!

Now, it may not sound too much like a comedy, but I can assure you that Proteus' and Valentines' servants stole the show. I am not sure the humour would be portrayed that well by just reading the play, it is definitely something to see.

Once again, I have seen a new play by Shakespeare and I was very impressed and entertained.

My recommendation: A must-see for the summer of 2006.

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