The Winter’s Tale is originally written by William Shakespeare is on full display at Phoenix Theatre. This adaptation is written and directed by Ms. Katrina Hall. The words to describe the experience can only be described as powerful. The entire ensemble was hands down strong individually and a powerhouse as a collective. So let’s dive into the rest of the review.
Production
This was probably as close to an actual stage play as it can be for it to be in Zoom. The set and slides was well done. It flowed effortlessly and without hiccup. I was thoroughly impressed. The attention to detail didn’t go unnoticed. Even the scenes that depicted or mimicked points of violence or abuse the timing was spot on. That’s not as always easy to do without overly stating it in this virtual world.
Time and the Beauty Salon
I loved how time is wrapped in a beauty shop. There’s a cultural significance to that for me. If you have ever gone specifically to a Black salon you are in there until you’re done. That time can sometimes be figuratively and physically all day. I loved how there’s a challenge of why the level of forgiveness is even being offered. This level of questioning is meant to be thought provoking. The same thing happens in salons too. Conversations of foley as well as wisdom is often passed down while being serviced! I won’t give it all away of course but I will suggest while you’re watching to listen and lean in.
Nothing New Under the Sun
It’s important that we take the universal messages what this production provides. When someone is obsessed with what you’re up to but having a blind eye to their own issues..it means something. Also this whirlwind of love and paying for your “sins” is brought up. Specifically the line, “the beginning starts with goodbye.” Its in a goodbye that we the most crush not realizing the power that is in a goodbye.
Flow of the Show
Like I said earlier, it was effortless! I was fully engaged! I had no issue with following the story. To be honest it was so good that if you weren’t paying attention you would have missed it. There was action from the beginning. Can I say the intermission was so entertaining. I actually never got up to take a break. Super clear expectations and flow. Like I said earlier, it flowed super close to a live show. Hands down worthy of an extension in my opinion! Kudos to the entire cast and production staff. When I interviewed Ms. Katina the director and writer, I see why she gave the production team such high regards.
This is an excellent adaptation. I like this version of The Winter’s Tale!
So how can you get in on the action! Get your tickets here! If you’re loving what you’re seeing there are ways to donate during the show too. Even that was unique-just wait and see! If you’re thinking that this sounds good but you don’t have time to view the live show you can make a donation here too!
You can also listen to the interview on the podcast, with Ms. Katrina Hall here.
If you’re asking me if this is a production I would watch multiple times and the answer is YES! Go grab your tickets! The show will be available today at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm! So let’s not sleep on it!!
Thank you to The Phoenix Theater for having me as well as Carrie Gorn!! This is an absolute hit!
