What I liked
I loved how when cast in this new context, these very familiar passages took on new life. These are some of the most powerful words we have in the English language, and they were being used to empower women. Each performance was thoughtful and rang true.
What I didn't like
I don’t have much in the way of criticism. I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
My overall impression
No other author in literary history has words as often repeated as Shakespeare. These words have been recited and repackaged countless times in the centuries since they were written, often to great effect. What sets “Speak I Will” apart from so many other performances of The Bard’s work is that it completely repurposes these words, using classical theatre to subvert classical ideas about women; who they are, what roles they serve, and most importantly, what they are capable of. From it’s scathing opening to its final, triumphant roar, the delightful cast of “Speak I Will” may be reciting Shakespeare’s words, but the truths reverberating from the stage are unequivocally their own. It was a performance I will not soon forget. Bravo, ladies.
