We had breakfast here at the hotel and then headed off the Ashland. Our first play was Coriolanus, a not so well known tragedy by the master. This production was in a contemporary setting, but its lessons ring as true today as they did then. A hero returns from battle and is encouraged to become a member of the Roman Senate, but, despite all those around him encouraging him to do so, he is unwilling to lower his standards and expectations just so "the people" will accept him. The end is indeed a tragedy for him and for Rome. It definately reflects our political times. The star of the show was amazing. Others of the cast were not quite up to his equal but it was still a wonderful production.
We ran home between shows for a quick nap and ate at the Black Bear Diner in Medford.Back to Ashland for a production of A Comedy of Errors. This show was set in the wild west days and had been turned into a musical. I know, sounds odd, but it really worked. The themes were there, the lesson to be taken away even though all the characters were dressed in the garb of a an old west town, complete with sheriff and hanging tree. Absolutely hilarious! Mistaken identity, confusion, slapstick, corny humor all reign supreme throughout this show which ended about 11 and we drove on back to a good night's sleep.
Tomorrow we see Midsummer Night's Dream and Clay Pots.
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