Interview: Jason McDowell-Green and A LITTLE SHAKESPEARE at Two River Theater

Two River Theater is now staging "A Little Shakespeare" for student audiences at their Marian Huber Theater. The abridged version of their main stage production of As You Like it is being presented from February 4th to February 9th. Adapted and directed by Jason McDowell-Green, this is the first year of a special Shakespearean show for young audiences at the Red Bank Theater. It is geared for middle and upper grades and features a cast of nearly 15 local high school students. The young actors recently had the opportunity to see the full production of As You Like It on the Two River's stage.

McDowell-Green has an impressive theatrical background that includes directing Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet as well as starring in a separate production of the same play at the Guthrie Theater. He returns to Two River Theater after being the assistant director of their hit show My Wonderful Day.

The 75 minute rendition of As You Like will bring the story to full life. McDowell-Green said, "We really focus on the core of the story." He said that it was a challenge to adapt the play, but his experience as a member of The Acting Company in New York City prepared him for the task. He is confident that the young audience will appreciate the elements in the Shakespearean classic that are captivating; action, comedy, romance; and fight scenes.

McDowell-Green is confident that area students will enjoy the production. He stated, "I think the most exciting part of this is the youth of both the actors and the audience. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience classic theater and Shakespearean language at an early age." He further said that he hopes that seeing As You Like It will interest the young Two River audiences in theater for the future.

The Two River Theater is located at 21 Bridge Street in Red Bank, New Jersey. Tickets are $10 for student matinees; $15 for public performances, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit www.tworivertheater.org or call 732-345-1400.

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