Richmond Shakespeare upped the ante this summer with 'Henry V,' 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' and 'Hamlet.'
They've done it again.
This is quite possibly the best ensemble I've ever seen; every cast member added vibrance, exuberance, and depth to the play as a whole. Richmond Shakespeare 'regulars' and newcomers alike will enjoy performances by not only favorite familiar faces (such as Sarah Jamillah Johnson, T.J. Simmons, and Bob Jones) but also newcomers (such as John Conyers, Alana Smith, and Chris Blake). It seems unfair to highlight certain cast members, because everyone truly gave it their all. Director Grant Mudge was clearly in his element with a perfect storm of a dynamic cast and a new space.
Those who have come to love the former downtown performance space (Second Presbyterian Church) will be delighted by the meshing of the intimacy of that space with the layout of the summer venue, Agecroft Hall.
Those who are new to Richmond Shakespeare will wonder why they haven't been coming to these shows for years.
All in all, it would be a shame to pass up a chance to see this show.