Director's Notes

Welcome to our production of Shakespeare’s As You Like It, a tale of love, identity, and the freedom to be oneself. Set in the early 2000s, an era that redefined the teenage romantic comedy, we draw inspiration from classics like She’s All That, 10 Things I Hate About You, and She’s the Man. These films, much like our play, celebrate the journey of self-discovery and the courage to defy expectations.

In this rendition, the Forest of Arden transforms into a vibrant escape reminiscent of the home school social scene, where characters shed their societal labels and explore the depths of their personalities. It’s a stark contrast to the court—a metaphor for the rigid, often unforgiving, world of wealthy prep school society (Reminiscent of another classic from the era, Cruel Intentions).

Our Arden is a place without judgment, mirroring the type of educational landscape where diverse learning environments allow students to thrive in their own unique ways. It’s a world where the outcast can become the hero, the jock can reveal a poet’s heart, and love can blossom in the most unexpected places.

As you journey with us through Arden, we invite you to embrace the nostalgia, the laughter, and the timeless message that we are all free to write our own story.

Personally, for me, As You Like It marks a milestone for me. I am an Alumna of this university and department and proud to be here directing these fabulous students. They have embraced the process and even though some of them had some trepidation with performing Shakespeare, they have dove in and created some beautiful work. This show is set in the era I was a student here, the nostalgia moments have come full circle and it has been so fun. For the past 10 years I have also had the privilege of working in this department and watching so many students grow and develop and move on to create great things, and now I get to be a part of that growth. With all of the changes to the university of the past few months I am now having to say goodbye to the beloved PCAC and move on myself to new and wonderful things. I am grateful that I can offer this show as my final love letter to the department that shaped so much of who I am as an adult. Thank you all for coming to enjoy our hard work. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show—as you like it.

Enjoy the performance!

--Jamie Clavet