All the world’s a stage … even during a pandemic. This Friday (at 8 p.m.), Tennessee Shakespeare Company will present its tenth (and final) installment in the Dr. Greta McCormick Coger Literary Salon Series. Directed by Stephanie Shine, “This is Illyria, Lady” will study one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, Twelfth Night. The one-hour Salon will be broadcast from TSC’s Tabor Stage.
“By focusing on a few favorite elements of this magical play,” says Shine, “we more clearly appreciate the wit and wisdom of Shakespeare’s most musical fool: the mysterious Feste. We’ll discover how Feste guides his fellow characters, making each take measure of themselves. We’ll also experience the majestic pants-role known as Viola, where Shakespeare boldly gives voice to a beloved female character while shedding light onto the dark Elizabethan mystery of twins.” (Feste will be played by Dan McCleary, TSC’s founder and creative director.)
For those unfamiliar with Twelfth Night (as described by TSC):
“Influenced by the end of Christmas celebrations, Shakespeare’s fantastical tale of unrequited love embraces a comedy and musicality that remain popular for all ages. Twins are separated in a shipwreck and wash ashore in strange Illyria. One twin, Viola, falls in love with Orsino, who swoons for Olivia, who moons over Viola, but is adored by Malvolio. Enter Sebastian, the spitting image of Viola …”
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at tnshakespeare.org.