As You Like It at Shakespeare’s Globe

Part of the delight of Shakespeare’s comedy classic As You Like It is how it moves the action from the initial ostentatious, tyrannical court to the idyllic surroundings of the Forest of Arden, where naturally hilarity ensues as various couples pursue their love interests. Co-directors Sean Holmes and Charlie Josephine provide a lively, warm production, keeping it safe and enjoyable with a strong cast, period costumes and excellent musical interludes under Musical Director Katie Richardson.

The cast boasts some wonderful performances; notably, Lola Shalam’s spirited Rosalind is a force to be reckoned with as she oozes energy and stage presence with a consistently sharp command of the text and fantastic chemistry with both her cousin, Celia (Gracie Oddie-James) and her love interest, Orlando (also Charlie Josephine). Josephine’s Orlando, meanwhile, is caring and calm, displaying some endearing qualities in his honest engagement with the world. To some degree, Jonnie Broadbent steals the show as Touchstone, however. The ease with which he carries the character and maintains perfect comic timing is beautifully entertaining to watch. Katherine Pearce, as a female Jaques, brings a tongue-in-cheek quality to the character’s usual melancholy and delivers a powerful rendition of All the World’s a Stage.

Designer Paul Willis treats the audience to period costumes. For the most part, these are functional, although the first act at court features more over-the-top baroque-inspired pieces that are pleasingly ridiculous – in stark contrast to Touchstone, who is generally given rather little to wear. Frequent musical interludes – often woven seamlessly into the play’s action – are both effective and charming. Frequently, the actors join in vocally or lead pieces entirely, and towards the end, even get the onlookers to participate as a chorus.

This is As You Like It leaning into the comedy’s strengths with plenty of joy, silliness and romance. It’s full of character with an energetic cast and playful design, making the Forest of Arden seem an inviting place to go for a holiday. Yet for all its appeal, the production remains on familiar ground – enjoyable and worthwhile, but not groundbreaking.

Michael Higgs
Photos: Marc Brenner

As You Like It is at Shakespeare’s Globe from 21^st August until 25^th October 2026. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.

Watch the trailer for As You Like It at Shakespeare’s Globe here: