Cymbeline: A Lesser-Known Shakespearean Gem
The Historical Significance of Cymbeline
William Shakespeare’s play Cymbeline, also known as The Tragedy of Cymbeline, is often unheard of but significant in the Bard’s repertoire. Written in the early 1600s, modern critics classify it as a romance or comedy.
Andrea Thome’s Modern Adaptation
Thome’s updated adaptation of the play transforms the original language into a format that modern theatergoers can enjoy.
Here’s a quick preview:
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A Revolutionary Production by NAATCO
The National Asian American Theater Company (NAATCO) presented the all-femme, all-Asian American cast at the Lynn F. Angelson Theater.
The Performance Experience
Audience Reaction
From the first act, the audience roared with laughter, proving Shakespeare’s imagination and understanding of human complexity transcends centuries.
Cymbeline: A Synopsis
Fortunately, the play began with a quick synopsis for those unfamiliar with the story. However, there is nothing like diving headfirst into a Shakespeare play.
Key Characters and Plot Elements
The Leading Players
Cymbeline’s leading players are King (Amy Hill), his daughter Imogen (Jennifer Lim), and her husband Posthumus (KK Moggie), whom the king disapproves of. Cymbeline’s second wife (Maria-Christina Oliveras) and her dysfunctional son Cloten (Jeena Yi) add intrigue and conflict.
A Fairy Tale Narrative
The play is presented as a fairy tale, where intertwining plots and subplots keep you riveted by the action on stage.
A Simple Yet Riveting Plot
The King banishes Posthumus from Britain, and all bets are on whether Imogen will keep her virtue while he is gone. The Queen and Cloten try interfering with the bloodline as Cloten attempts to woo Imogen. Meanwhile, the Queen conspires to poison Imogen and the King to secure her power.
Standout Performances
Jennifer Lim as Imogen
There’s a gentle, sugary quality to Lim’s performance, a stark contrast to the treachery surrounding her. Ultimately, she gains the power to persevere against the Queen’s meddling and others who seek to harm her.
Jeena Yi as Cloten
Yi’s presentation of Cloten is unforgettable. Her body movements were so arresting that one cannot help but admire her tremendous acting skills and physicality. She caused uproarious laughter when she performed a song and invited two audience members to play instruments, delighting everyone in attendance.
Maria-Christina Oliveras as the Queen
Oliveras was a maddening tornado to reckon with as the Queen, a total powerhouse of a part. However, her plot falls apart when Posthumus’s killing of her son ruins her plans.
KK Moggie as Posthumus
Moggie was exceptional, acting scorned but ultimately filled with remorse and love for the beloved Imogen.
Why You Should See Cymbeline
The Value of Live Shakespeare
The most significant factor in understanding Shakespeare is to attend any performance.
A Modern Translation for Modern Audiences
Thome’s modern translation of Cymbeline is not to be missed.
Production Information
Cast and Creative Team
NAATCO, in partnership with PLAY ON SHAKESPEARE, presents Cymbeline, written by William Shakespeare and translated by Andrea Thome. Directed by Stephen Brown-Fried. Press by David Gersten and Associates.
WITH: Purva Bedi, Annie Fang, Amy Hill, Anna Ishida, Narea Kang, Jennifer Lim, KK Moggie, Maria-Christina Oliveras, Julyana Soelistyo, Sarah Suzuki, and Jeena Yi.
Show Details
Cymbeline is now playing at the Lynn F. Angelson Theater through February 15. Tickets can be purchased here.
Cymbeline: A Lesser-Known Shakespearean Gem
Lynn F. Angelson Theater
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