The Two Noble Kinsmen

 The Two Noble Kinsmen
Shakespeare in the Parking Lot
The Drilling Company
July 16, 2021 

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Shakespeare in the Parking Lot is back… and better than ever!  This summer they are presenting a glorious production of William Shakespeare & John Fletcher’s TheTwo Noble Kinsmen in two locations: the parking lot at the Clemente Cultural Center (107, Suffolk St. on the Lower East Side) and in Bryant Park (6^th Ave. & 42 St.).  Director Hamilton Clancy has gathered a remarkably sharp company of actors for this rarely seen Shakespeare piece.  It is not to be missed.

After Athens is victorious in war with Thebes, Duke Theseus (played by Lukas Raphael) imprisons two noble cousins, Palamon (played by Bradford Frost) and Arcite (played by John Caliendo).  From their prison window, Palamon and Arcite spot Emilia (played by Liz Livingston), who is the sister of Duke Theseus’ wife, Hippolyta (played by Kathleen Simmonds). Both men are enamored and begin arguing over the right to woo her affections.  When Arcite is released from prison and banished from Athens, he disguises himself and sneaks into court to get close to Emilia.  Meanwhile, the Jailors Daughter (played by Jane Bradley) falls madly in love with Palamon and helps him escape. 

Palamon and Arcite find each other in the woods.  Though happy to see one another, they continue to fight for the right to pursue Emilia.  When Duke Theseus discovers them fighting, they reveal their true identities and the reason for the fight.  Theseus sets a date for a duel between the two cousins.  He promises Emilia’s hand to the victor, and death to the loser.

The Jailor’s Daughter has gone mad in her unrequited love of Palamon.  Her father (played by David Marantz) consults a doctor (played by Mary Linehan) to cure her.  The Wooer of the Jailor’s Daughter (played by Remy Souchon) willingly plays his part in her cure. 

Arcite wins the duel for Emilia’s hand, then dies when falling from his horse.  Palamon gains his life and love, but loses his noble cousin and closest friend. 

Bradford Frost as Palamon & John Caliendo as Arcite
Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Bradford Frost and John Caliendo bring humor and honesty to the complicated relationship between Palamon and Arcite.  One minute they are inseparable cousins and the next they are fighting to the death.  They create genuine characters, earnestly motivated by love and honor.  Liz Livingston is strong and resolute as Emilia.  Even though she is unwavering in her conviction not to marry either kinsman, she takes the responsibility of the duel very seriously.  Her deliberation is portrayed with high integrity and meticulous care.

Jane Bradley as the Jailer's Daughter
Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Jane Bradley is mesmerizing as the Jailer’s Daughter.  The physicality of her character consumes her.  She opens her heart with unwavering trust and steadfast conviction.  The humor is brought to an even higher level in Mary Linehan’s impeccable portrayal of the Doctor, Remy Souchon’s winning portrayal of the Wooer of the Jailer’s Daughter, and David Marantz’s staunch portrayal of the Jailer.  Their characterizations are flawless and their timing is impeccable.   

Lukas Raphael is noble and proud as Theseus, and Kathleen Simmonds is regal and commanding as Hippolyta.  There are strong performances by Lizabeth Allen, Elowyn Castle, Ja’Quawn Turner, and Bob Arcaro, each creating numerous and distinct characters who engage the audience in the progress of the action. 

Director Hamilton Clancy and Assistant Director Karla Hendrick have outdone themselves with this production.  The Two Noble Kinsmen will be at Bryant Park on July 19, 20, & 21 at 7:30 PM, then back at the Clemente Cultural Center parking lot on July 28, 29, & 30 at 7:00 PM.  All performances are FREE.  No one does outdoor Shakespeare better that The Drilling Company.  Don’t miss it!  

Domenick Danza

The Tempest

The Tempest

The Drilling Company

Bryant Park Shakespeare

September 1, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of Bryant Park Shakespeare

Director Lukas Raphael brings The Drilling Company’s summer Shakespeare season to a stunning conclusion with his rendition of The Tempest at Bryant Park.  He states in the program notes, “While embracing the madness of our venue in Manhattan, it was important to focus the production and tell the story clearly, imaginatively, and immediately.”  He skillfully achieves this goal through collaboration with a brilliant cast and amazing composer, Natalie Smith.  Mr. Raphael hones in on the essence and power of Shakespeare’s tale, making it accessible and entertaining.

Prospero (played by Roger Rathburn), the former Duke of Milan, and his daughter, Miranda (played by Mary Linehan) have been living on a secluded island after forced exile twelve years ago.  He rules over Ariel, a spirit (played by Natalie Smith), and Caliban, an island native who formerly reigned over the island (played by Eric Paterniani).  Prospero conjures a mighty storm that causes a shipwreck.  Aboard the ship are Alonso, the King of Naples (played by Jack Sochet), and members of his courts, including his son Ferdinand (played by Bradford B. Frost).  They all become separated, and seek any advantage to obtain power.  It is Prospero’s plan for redemption through forgiveness that comes to fruition.

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Roger Rathburn is commanding as Prospero.  He creates a strong bond with Natalie Smith’s Ariel.  Jack Sochet portrays a wide range of emotion as Alonso.  He remains in control over the men of his court, while feeling a deep loss thinking his son Ferdinand died during the storm.  Bryce Dutton (as Sebastian), Michael Bernstein (as Antonio), Zach Guttmann (as Adrian), and Robert Arcaro (as Gonzalo) concisely illustrate the struggle between loyalty and betrayal that takes place in the minds of men of power.  Their scenes provide truth to the events that caused Prospero’s exile and propel the action forward. 

The true magic of this production takes place between Mary Linehan and Bradford B. Frost.  The innocence and naiveté of Ms. Linehan’s Miranda is sincere and genuine.  Her character is strongly rooted and sure of herself in the world her father built for her.  She is also eager to experience the newness of the world beyond its borders.  Mr. Frost’s Ferdinand is bold and brave.  His tenderness toward Miranda is endearing.  Together these two actors create true and honest moments of discovery.  Their chemistry is electric.  Their skills are sharp and focused.

Eric Paterniani, who is usually cast in the comic roles in The Drilling Company productions, is mesmerizing as Caliban.  He creates this “monster” character by making strong physical and vocal choices that create mystery and intrigue.  When he conspires with Jarrod Bates (Trinculo) and Andrew Gombas (Stephano), it is pure pandemonium.

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

You have one more weekend to see The Drilling Company’s production of The Tempest at Bryant Park (Friday and Saturday, September 8 & 9, at 7:00 PM).  It is your last chance for FREE summer Shakespeare.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

All’s Well That Ends Well

All’s Well That Ends Well

The Drilling Company

Shakespeare in the Parking Lot

July 15, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of Shakespeare in the Parking Lot

You must see The Drilling Company’s Shakespeare in the Parking Lot production of All’s Well That Ends Well.  Director Karla Hendrick has masterfully condensed this Shakespeare comedy down to an enthralling two hours without an intermission.  The show is clear, concise, bold, intelligent, and funny.  Ms. Hendrick’s understanding of pace and timing brought this superb cast to perform as a well-knit ensemble.  Once again, The Drilling Company Shakespeare in the Parking Lot reigns as the best outdoor Shakespeare experience in the city.

Anwen Darcy & Michael Bernstein
Photo courtesy of Shakespeare int he Parking Lot

When Helena (played by Anwen Darcy) is parted from Bertram (played by Adam Huff), she confesses to his mother, the Countess (played by Elowyn Castle) that she is in love with him.  Helena travels to France to find him.  She plans to use the herbs and remedies she inherited from her father to heal the King (played by David Sitler), and in return request he marry her to the man of her choosing.  She is successful in her plan, yet when she chooses Bertram, he is reluctant due to her lower social status.  This calls for another, more cunning plan to change his mind.

Mary Linehan & Elowyn Castle
Photo courtesy of Shakespeare in the Parking Lot

Anwen Darcy and Adam Huff are excellent as Helena and Bertram.  Their chemistry and attraction is strong.  They play the push/pull of Shakespeare’s comic love extremely well.  Mary Linehan reigns as LaVatch, servant to the Countess.  She captures your attention and flirts with your emotions.  She is equally matched by Michael Bernstein as Parolles.  His is bold and energetic.  The scenes they have together are scintillating.  Another amazing duo is Eric Paterniani and Jarrod Bates.  They play numerous roles and are always together.  Their characterizations and comic timing are impeccable.  Elaine Ivy Harris creates a strong willed Diana whose free spiritedness brings the lovers, Helena and Bertram, together in the end (Oops!  Spoiler alert… but this IS a Shakespeare comedy).

Photo courtesy of Shakespeare in the Parking Lot

All’s Well That Ends Well runs for one more weekend (Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, July 20-22, at 7:00 PM) at the Clemente Cultural & Educational Center Parking Lot.  Check the website for directions (shakespeareintheparkinglot.com). The Drilling Company’s summer season also includes Henry VI Part 3 from July 27 – Aug. 12 at the Parking Lot, and Twelfth Night and The Tempest at Bryant Park.  All these shows are FREE.  Make a plan to see them all!

Domenick Danza

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare in the Parking Lot

The Drilling Company

July 15, 2016

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

The Drilling Company’s Shakespeare in the Parking Lot production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is an updated, fast paced, Lower East Side experience that you MUST see.  Director and designer Kathy Curtiss keeps the action moving and building for a full two hours and twenty minutes without an intermission.  She unifies this relatively large cast with a coherent style and edginess that strikes a chord in the imagination.  Every moment is alive, and Shakespeare’s words ring loud and clear in the expansive outdoor space.

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Mary Linehan is charming and feisty as Hermia.  She steals your heart and holds her own against Kathleen Simmonds’ fiery Helena.  Eddie Shields and Brad Frost are daring as Lysander and Demetrius.  These four actors light up the stage.  Their physical antics are keenly staged and skillfully executed.  Warren Jackson and Serena E. Miller are bold and earthy as Oberon and Titania.  Their chemistry is palpable and true.  Drew Valins is mischievous and sly as Puck.  His energy is high and focused.  He takes full advantage of his six foot stature to create a Puck that is unique, genuine, and engaging.  Michael Bernstein’s Egeus is authentic and endearing. 

  

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

The rustics are a strong ensemble of skilled and funny actors who make the most of every moment.  Their tale of Pyramus and Thisbe takes place in outer space.  The chink in the wall is an opening in a force field.  The lion is a fierce space beast.  Director Kathy Curtiss’ concept works amazingly well.  The scripted adjustments and spontaneous adlibs are witty and entertaining.  Jarrod Bates takes command as Peter Quince, and Jordan Felter amazes as Bottom.  He is honest, bawdy, sensitive, and hilarious.

This is The Drilling Company’s 22^nd season producing Shakespeare in the Parking Lot, and they keep getting better every year.  Don’t miss this exciting and unique interpretation of A Midsummer Night‘s Dream.  There is one more weekend of performances: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, July 21, 22, and 23 at 8:00 PM.  The Parking Lot is located at 114 Norfolk Street (east side of Norfolk Street between Delancey and Rivington Streets), behind The Clemente Soto Velez Cultural and Educational Center.  Their next production, The Merchant of Venice, performs in the same location July 28 through August 14.  It is also sure to be great. 

Domenick Danza

The Drilling Company's Summer Shakespeare Season

Much Ado About Nothing

Bryant Park

June 4, 2016

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

You know the summer is finally here when you find yourself sitting in Bryant Park watching the first production of The Drilling Company’s summer Shakespeare season.  Then it starts to rain.  Yes, the closing night performance of Much Ado About Nothing was rained out about half way through Act II.  The disappointment was high as everyone ran for cover because the production was magical.  Artistic Director Hamilton Clancy is the master of outdoor Shakespeare.  He is a skilled director with a keen insight for how to keep the pace moving, and a focused instinct for great casting. 

McKay Carpenter & Anwen Darcy
Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Before it started to rain, the stage was overflowing with enchantment and vitality.  Mary Linehan (as Hero) and Andrew Gombas (as Claudio) were a charming, romantic couple.  The chemistry between McKay Carpenter (as Benedict) and Anwen Darcy (as Beatrice) was fiery and dazzling.  Eric Paterniani’s physical characterization of Conrad was boldly inventive and humorous.  Michael Bernstein’s comic timing delivered a playful Borachio.  Drew Valins created a strong Don Pedro.  Brandon Reilly was charming and endearing as Don John. 

The rain might have prevented the last chance I had to see Much Ado About Nothing, but The Drilling Company has four additional productions coming up this summer.  As You Like It (July 21 - 23) and Measure for Measure (September 1 - 18) will be at Bryant Park.  This marks their third summer partnering with Bryant Park Presents.  Shakespeare in the Parking Lot will celebrate its 21^st year with A Midsummer Night’s Dream (July 7 – 24) and The Merchant of Venice (July 28 – August 14) at the Clemente Cultural Center parking lot (114 Norfolk Street).  All performances are FREE, and are sure to be great experiences.  Check out their website for performance times and details, and enjoy the best summer Shakespeare New York has to offer.  

 

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Domenick Danza

The Taming of the Shrew

The Taming of the Shrew

The Drilling Company

Bryant Park

September 4, 2015

Photo courtesy of
The Drilling Company

The Drilling Company’s production of The Taming of the Shrew opened at Bryant Park on Friday, September 4.  Director Alessandro Colla’s rendition of this raucous Shakespeare comedy takes place in “Padua by the Sea,” a North Eastern fishing town similar to Amity from the move Jaws.  When Petruchio takes on the challenge of conquering the “great white shark” Kate, the outcome is abundant hilarity and true love.

Eric Paterniani, Alessandro Colla, Eli Branson
Photo by Jonathan Slaff, courtesy of The Drilling Company

In addition to directing, Mr. Colla also takes on the role of Petruchio.  His vision for the play is sharp and his interpretation of the character is impeccable.  He is equally matched and challenged by the fiery Evangeline Melody Fontaine as Kate, the shrew.  Mary Linehan is mischievous and beguiling as Bianca, and Lukas Raphael is charming and sincere as Lucentio.  Eric Paterniani and Eli Branson deliver the laughs as Grumio and Curtis.  The entire cast deserves a shout out: Jarrod Bates, Michael Bernstein, Colleen Cosgrove, Jonathan Eric Foster, Bill Galarno, Brandon Reilly, Jack Sochet, and Mike Taylor.  They work as a team creating strong, appealing characters that make this production of The Taming of the Shrew a winner. 

Evangeline Melody Fontaine, Bill Galarno, Mary Linehan
Photo by Jonathan Slaff, courtesy of The Drilling Company

Jen Varbalow’s set design is clean and simple.  She is able to focus the audience’s attention on the specific locations of the play in the expansive Bryant Park outdoor space.  Anna Grossman’s sound design transports the audience to these locations with updated music and atmospheric effects.

This is the final production of The Drilling Company’s 2015 summer season.  Over the past six months, Artistic Director Hamilton Clancy successfully produced five free outdoor Shakespeare performances in two different locations in the city.  The Taming of the Shrew plays at Bryant Park Fridays and Saturday at 6:30 PM and Sundays at 2:00 PM through September 20.  End the summer on a high note… go see it!  Yes, it is FREE!

Domenick Danza