Theater company brings Shakespeare to life

As cheerful music filled the air, the lights dimmed and the stage in the Bowne Community Church came to life as actors filled the stage with unforgettable scenes. &#8220As You Like It,” by William Shakespeare, was performed in early November by the cast of the Queens Shakespeare Inc.
The Queens Shakespeare Inc. is a non-profit organization that brings together both professional actors and amateur actors from around Queens for a chance to act in a Shakespearian play and learn one-on-one with seasoned actors.
Created and directed by Nanette Ozais Asher, this organization helps students learn about the theater and what it takes to make a performance work. Asher makes it clear what the goals are for this Queens-based organization.
&#8220To bring classical theater to Queens as its own project. To bring it for Queens residents to see it, and participate in it and keep it going as a residence company.”
Andrew MacLarty, one of the teenagers who is a participant of the Queens Shakespeare Inc. said, &#8220I really love acting. I love this company and I love Shakespeare. I wanted to do this a long time. I love the environment. I love the characters.”
Liam MacLarty another teenager associated with the company says, &#8220Being an understudy if very hard work and this experience is something that I will never forget. I will always remember this.”
When talking to the cast and asking them what is it like working with teenage actors, Elizabeth Hammett, who plays Phoebe in As You Like It, said, &#8220I think it's great that it's run as a training company and there are less and more experienced actors in the same cast. It's a great learning experience because you learn from each other and other characters.”
This group is also a way for teachers to show students the wonders of Shakespeare and give them a better understanding of this timeless author through theatrical works and heart throbbing scenes. Queens Shakespeare Inc. is a way to give Queens residents of all ages a chance to learn and experience how much work and effort goes into each performance of a play. The next production has not yet been decided. To learn more or to participate in this program, call 718-357-3842.