SHAKESPEARE STORIES: AS YOU LIKE IT

I've never been a big fan of "retelling" Shakespeare's plays in an attempt to make them more "understandable." The genius of Shakespeare is not in his stories, which are borrowed from other sources, but in the poetry of his language, which he uses to create characters that explore the rich tapestry of humanity. However, Garfield does more than simply retell AS YOU LIKE IT and Chivers does more than simply offer Garfield's text. And that's a partnership that makes these programs worthwhile. The basis of the program is, of course, Garfield's retelling of this lively romantic comedy. What makes his retelling work well is the way he skillfully weaves lines from the plays into his narrative in a way that gives a taste of Shakespeare's poetry. Chivers has chosen Clare Higgins, a British actress who has performed with the Royal Shakespeare Company, to narrate and she brings bright energy to both performances. Her voice delivers a theatrical resonance that skilled British performers bring to the work of Shakespeare. The music was composed by Shakespeare's contemporaries. The program includes a plot summary, an introduction to Shakespeare (by Garfield), and a brief essay, "Shakespeare Today." Together, they make an inviting package for the novice or the Shakespeare buff. P.B.J. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]