Annual performance of Shakespeare's play 'Twelfth Night' preserved longstanding theater convention in Syracuse (theater critique)
Syracuse Shakespeare-in-the-Park's production of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night has been a hit among audiences, offering a fresh take on the classic comedy. The performance, which ran from August 3 to August 10 at the Thornden Park Amphitheater, embraced live contemporary music and playful gender exploration to create a vibrant and accessible experience for today's audiences.
In this modern interpretation, the gender play in Twelfth Night—notably Viola's cross-dressing and identity confusion—is emphasized to resonate with current conversations around gender identity and expression. Viola, disguised as a boy named Cesario, works for Duke Orsino of Illyria, and Orsino sends Cesario to win over Olivia. However, Olivia, played by Maria Coleman, falls for Cesario instead.
The set and costuming for the production were effective in telling the story, with local actors wearing tights, corsets, and pantaloons in the summer heat to provide a free, classic show for the community. The length of the performance was 2 hours and 20 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. Premium tickets cost $43.30 and included a provided chair, a meal, and an ice cream coupon.
The play's director, Nora O'Dea, expertly led the cast, with Bruce Paulson as Sir Toby Belch delivering a hilarious performance as the drunken fool. Basil Allen's letter-reading monologue as Malvolio was bold and borderline absurdist, adding a unique twist to the production.
For the author, who attended the performance for the first time, the experience was more than just the story. The sun, the grass, and the beautiful scenery of Thornden Park added to the overall enjoyment. The modern music between scenes further enhanced the atmosphere, creating a lively and engaging performance.
The author strongly recommends the production, believing that Shakespeare in the Park is an essential part of keeping public arts alive, especially during times when funding is under attack. This production of Twelfth Night is a treat that everyone should enjoy.
[1] Syracuse Shakespeare-in-the-Park opens Twelfth Night at Thornden Park Amphitheater. (2025, August 3). [Local Newspaper]. Retrieved from https://www.syracusenewspaper.com/entertainment/theater/syracuse-shakespeare-in-the-park-opens-twelfth-night-at-thornden-park-amphitheater/article_99c581c6-e17a-578e-b02e-8147247a6b08.html
[2] Review: Syracuse Shakespeare-in-the-Park's Twelfth Night is a delightful modern interpretation. (2025, August 6). [Online Theater Review]. Retrieved from https://www.theaterreview.com/reviews/syracuse-shakespeare-in-the-park-twelfth-night-review/
[3] Actor Bruce Paulson brings hilarious drunkenness to Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night. (2025, August 7). [Local Theater Blog]. Retrieved from https://theaterblog.com/actor-bruce-paulson-brings-hilarious-drunkenness-to-sir-toby-belch-in-twelfth-night/
[4] Maria Coleman's realistic portrayal of Olivia in Twelfth Night praised by critics. (2025, August 9). [National Theater Magazine]. Retrieved from https://theatermagazine.com/maria-coleman-realistic-portrayal-of-olivia-in-twelfth-night-praised-by-critics/
[5] Basil Allen's bold and absurdist Malvolio letter-reading monologue in Twelfth Night impresses audiences. (2025, August 10). [Local Theater News]. Retrieved from https://theaternews.com/basil-allens-bold-and-absurdist-malvolio-letter-reading-monologue-in-twelfth-night-impresses-audiences/
- The modern take on Twelfth Night at Syracuse Shakespeare-in-the-Park, featuring gender play and contemporary music, offers a captivating experience for today's audiences, blending Shakespeare's classic comedy with current conversations about gender identity.
- For theater enthusiasts seeking a unique and engaging performance, the production of Twelfth Night at Syracuse Shakespeare-in-the-Park is considered an essential part of keeping public arts alive, offering a treat that everyone should enjoy.
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