Copyright Santa Clarita Valley Signal
News release Canyon High School’s theater department is scheduled Nov. 13-15 to present a fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy, “Twelfth Night,” an updated version of the play set against the backdrop of 1990s sitcom tropes. The production, directed by Canyon’s theatre teacher, Art Miller, takes the play’s famous themes of mistaken identities, unrequited love and humorous misunderstandings, and reimagines them in a world that draws inspiration from ’90s sitcoms like “Friends,” “Full House” and “Fresh Prince.” “Miller’s vision for this unique take on the play is to capture the feeling of nostalgia while highlighting Shakespeare’s exploration of complex emotions in an accessible and entertaining way,” said a news release from the high school’s theater group. “We wanted to take something that feels timeless — Shakespeare’s writing — and frame it within the relatable, humor-driven world of ’90s sitcoms,” Miller said in the release. “By doing this, we’re inviting the audience to experience the play in a fun, approachable way, while still honoring the richness of Shakespeare’s text. It’s a unique blend of nostalgia, humor and timeless themes.” This modernized production brings together a talented group of students who are eager to bring their characters to life in this fresh context, the release said. “I have enjoyed seeing how Shakespeare depicts love throughout ‘Twelfth Night,’” Josh Ighodaro, who plays Duke Orsino, said in the release. “All of the characters who are in love in the story are also experiencing a lot of pain concerning their affections — whether it’s because their love is unrequited or simply too much for their heart to hold. This same theme can be applied to many scenarios us students encounter in high school social spheres, which really speaks to the timelessness of Shakespeare’s writing.” Melody Ramirez, who plays Olivia in the Friday night performance, reflected on the joy of being part of the show: “I think what I’ve enjoyed most about ‘Twelfth Night’ was the experience,” said Ramirez. “I loved being part of it, and theater in general, and being able to play such an important role and share the stage with my very talented friends is amazing. I also think the show is hilarious, and Mr. Miller has structured it in a way that has made Shakespeare so much fun.” Brooke Swan, who plays Olivia on Thursday and Saturday performances, spoke about what the audience will take away most from the show: “The audience will enjoy our work in taking them out of the traditional Shakespeare environment, that many may perceive as dry or boring, and giving them something they can relate to,” she said in the release. Breezy Mulan Gillies, playing the lead role of Viola, spoke about her favorite scene of the play: “I love when Olivia is trying to seduce Viola, as she is disguised as the messenger boy, Cesario, and she gets away in the most ridiculous fashion,” Gillies said in the release. “It’s just one of my favorite moments in the play because of the amount of the physical comedy it produces. It makes everyone laugh, including me.” Performances run 7 p.m. Nov. 13-15 at the Canyon High School Performing Arts Center, 19300 Nadal St., Canyon Country. Tickets are available for purchase at the box office and are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for students and children.
