PPT Stages Production 'As You Like It'

The pursuit of happiness is at the heart of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy in this all-new production directed by Ted Pappas.

Pittsburgh Public Theater continues its red hot season with a glowing new production of "As You Like It." The show runs Jan. 19 to Feb. 19 at the O’Reilly Theater.

This romantic comedy features smart, funny and feisty Rosalind, who is one of Shakespeare’s greatest inventions. In this sparkling role, The Public is thrilled to welcome back Gretchen Egolf, who was last seen here as Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in the world premiere of "The Secret Letters of Jackie and Marilyn."

Playing her would-be beau, Orlando, is Christian Conn, who appeared on Broadway in "Desire Under the Elms." Making her Public Theater debut as Rosalind’s cousin, Celia, is Julia Coffey.

Returning to Pittsburgh, are several accomplished veterans who have performed recently at The Public: Ross Bickell (The Royal Family) as Duke Frederick and Duke Senior; Douglas Harmsen (The Importance of Being Earnest) as Touchstone; Anderson Matthews (Superior Donuts) as Jaques; and Noble Shropshire (Camelot) as Adam/Mar-Text. Also featured are Theo Allyn (Phoebe), David Bielewicz (Jaques De Boys), Alex Coleman (Corin), Don DiGiulio (Dennis), Lisa Ann Goldsmith (Audrey), Daniel Krell (LeBeau and Amiens), Chris Landis (Silvius), Lindsay Smiling (Charles, William and Hymen), and David Whalen (Oliver).  

In "As You Like It," when Rosalind is banished from the palace, she takes refuge in the Forest of Arden disguised as a boy. There she discovers a world full of colorful characters, all in riotous pursuit of happiness. With original music composed by Michael Moricz, director Ted Pappas has set his production in the Edwardian era, that short golden age at the dawn of the 20th century when social change promised to be the new fashion. Creating this stylish world is the design team: James Noone (Scenic), Gabriel Berry (Costumes), Kirk Bookman (Lighting), and Zach Moore (Sound). Randy Kovitz is the fight director, Ruth E. Kramer is the production stage manager, and Fredric H. Orner is the assistant stage manager.

Performance Schedule

Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m. (except Tuesday, Feb. 14 when the show is at 7 p.m.)

Saturday at 2 p.m. (except Jan. 28)

There will be an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Thursday, Feb. 16.

Sunday at 2 & 7 p.m.

Press Night is Thursday, Jan. 26

Opening Night is Friday, Jan. 27

Ticket Prices

$28 to $60

$15.75 for students and age 26 and younger with valid ID

For tickets, call 412-316-1600 or visit ppt.org.