In Twelfth Night, William Shakespeare’s high-spirited comedy set in the land of Illyria, shipwrecked twins Viola and Sebastian each believe the other has died. Disguised as a young man, Viola becomes Cesario and enters into the service of Duke Orsino (whom she promptly falls in love with), who sends Cesario as an emissary to win the affections of Lady Olivia (who is in mourning for her dead brother), who (of course) falls in love with Cesario.
Then Sebastian arrives on the scene and (of course) is mistaken for his disguised sister, which brings about a duel (don’t ask) and his marriage (his what?) to Olivia.
Meanwhile, back at Olivia’s, her uncle Sir Toby Belch, gentlewoman Maria, and fool Festa, along with Sir Andrew Aguecheek (who wishes to court Olivia), toy with the pompous steward Malvolio to pass the time and entertain themselves, bringing about even more illusion and confusion.
To recap: Viola loves Orsino, who thinks he loves Olivia, who thinks she loves Cesario, who is really Viola. Malvolio thinks he is a gentleman but he is not and Sir Andrew thinks he is a match for Olivia but he isn’t. Mistaken identity, impersonations, secret marriages, duels, pranks. Does anyone really know what’s up? Will everyone live happily ever after? Well, it is Shakespeare.
Come find out. Performances are at Taos Mesa Brewing, beginning at 7:00 p.m., Thursdays through Saturdays, July 21, 22, 23 and 28, 29, 30. Tickets are $15 general admission and $12 for seniors and students. No reservations are necessary, but bring your own chair or blanket (seating not provided). For more information, go to teatroserpiente.com.
Directed by Scott Tennant with Adam Overley-Black. Stage manager Leandra Munoz. Costumes by Carol Kalem and Elayna Snyder. Original music by Martha Grossman. Set by Sarah Hart and Cisco Velarde.
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