Not to be missed – playing until November 26, 2017
Continuing a “Season of Community” at Baltimore Center Stage, where every program
and production explores the role of artists and institutions in building community,
Shakespeare in Love embraces the theme of “joy”. The language, love story and
luxurious scenery aim directly at the joy in the connectedness of the human spirit. It is a
moving examination of the relationship between art and love
Baltimore’s Center Stage produces yet again, some of the best of Baltimore Theater with this engaging, modern and humorous take on the classic play. Male lead, Nicholas Carriere* who plays an impetuous, somewhat hyperactive William Shakespeare, keeps everyone engaged, consistently with a delivery so convincing, you begin to feel you are on first terms with him. Emily Trask* brings depth and a sense of real to the role of the object of his affection. She effectively shifts between her role as Viola, the ill fated daughter of a wealthy man, doomed to marry a horrid Wessex (played by Michael Brusasco*); due to an agreed upon bargain by her father. Avery Glymph* as the level headed and apparent true source of Shakespeare’s inspiration is absolutely brilliant. Nurse, Laura Gordon is dutiful and loyal to a level of sainthood, and the Queen, played by Naomi Jacobsen steals the show with on point, rip-roaring cameos throughout the drama and merriment. *Members of Actor’s Equity Association
Director Robinson does a fine job of ensuring that the vibe is both cheeky, funny, yet true to the essence of the original play. Scenic Designer Tim Mackabee is to be commended for the clever, versatile, and appropriate stage setting along perfectly complimented by Kathleen Geldhard‘s (costume designer) genius. You really do feel you could just walk into a moment in time, and it makes the play that more engaging for it.
Though the plays scenes are not always consistently engaging, when you get to the end of the ride, you 
feel as if you’ve been swept up in a romantic whirlwind, complete with silliness, lack of logic and desperate love at it’s finest. This is a great play for a date night, or group of friends – go before it’s too late, you won’t be disappointed! Purchase tickets here.