'Twelfth Night' at the Phoenix Stage Company - My Review

The production of Twelfth Night that opened at Naugatuck’s Phoenix Stage Company on Friday evening marks the first time that this hometown venue has attempted Shakespeare. Director Drew Scott worked with Tori and Rob Richnavsky to make it happen and this Shakespeare lover is grateful that it looks like it will become an annual event at the PSC.

The choice of Twelfth Night was a good one, although the cast required is a large one by PSC standards and two actors played two roles. The cast was a mix of some of the stage company’s talented frequent flyers and several performers new to this stage but clearly veteran actors. Truth be told, the performances of these new faces were some of the best parts of this excellent production.

The strong vision of the Shakespeare-seasoned director, a New Haven native, is apparent throughout the show. The precise and animated delivery of each of the character’s lines helps the audience follow the action of this delightful comedy. Careful blocking on this small stage that only featured a platform was a necessity and Mr. Scott, with the help of assistant director Tori Richnavsky, made it work. Rich looking costumes by Ed Bassett, with a forties flair, added much value, as did the new lighting at the PSC. The storm that opened the show was simple and effective.

The marvelous cast could not have been more delightful in their adventures in Illyria, and yes, I will mention every one of them.

Denise Whelan returns to the Phoenix Stage to play the faithful assistant to the duke and is adorable in her oversized glasses. Ms. Whelan is a teacher at a nearby college and her latest published children’s book features illustrations by PSC veteran Roseanne Elliot. Debbie Forish is perfectly cast as the meddling Maria; this actress has a flair for comedy and it was fun to see her shine in a more classic role. Ms. Forish will appear in the upcoming It Was a Dark and Stormy Night at the Phoenix Stage.

Jonathan Ross’ “past encounters with the Bard of Avon” include The Taming of the Shrew and As You Like It, and here played the sea captain and a silly priest. Kristen Jacobsen glowed as the beautiful Olivia that falls in love with a twin in disguise.

Chris Pytlak’s PSC debut as Sir Andrew Aguecheek was a memorable one; his comic timing and fight choreographer background made for a wonderfully silly performance. Joshua Dill, another new face, played the loyal Antonio.

Taryn Chorney, a teacher from Hamden, made her PSC debut as the put-upon Malvolio and brought the necessary severity to her role. Alana Kingsley returned to this stage to play Valentine (a male) and Festa (a female.)

Daniel Ross Willey was a properly improper Sir Toby Belch; no one can play a drunken character as well. College student Brian Elser is a PSC vet at a young age and did a fine job in the role of the other twin Sebastian. Rob Richnavsky, a man who was born to do Shakespeare, was perfection in the role of the duke Orsino as I knew he would be and I loved his white hat. He also served as Fight Director, while Emily Seibert was choreographer and movement specialist.

Moira Malone is a member of the Drama faculty at Quinnipiac University and was outstanding in the role of Festa Ms. Malone composed and performed original music in her role as Olivia’s not so foolish fool that added a lovely touch. Just as impressive was the PSC debut of Ammie Renee Kinsman in the leading role of Viola. This young actress has an extensive theater resume and it showed in her performance as the disguised lady that drives the action that transpires on this twelfth night.

Thank you to the Phoenix Stage for tackling this piece and bringing Shakespeare to Naugatuck.

Remaining performances: Saturday, September 13 at 8:00pm, Sunday, September 14 at 2:00pm

Phoenix Stage Company 686 Rubber Avenue • Naugatuck, CT 06770 • (203) 632-8546