A Midsummer Night's Dream of Melodies: Twelfth Night Opens at Delacorte

Under the starlit canopy of Central Park, the Public Theater’s Shakespeare in the Park production of “Twelfth Night” burst into vibrant life at the iconic Delacorte Theater, casting a spell of pure theatrical joy over its opening night audience. It wasn’t just a play; it was a full-blown summer celebration, a testament to New York’s enduring love affair with live performance and the timeless genius of Shakespeare.

The air buzzed with an electric energy, a palpable excitement that transcended the usual opening night glamor.

A cavalcade of stars, from Uma Thurman and Jon Hamm to Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Diane Sawyer, and Liev Schreiber, mingled with enthusiastic theater-goers, all united by the shared anticipation of a magical evening. The casual elegance of the outdoor setting, coupled with the sophisticated charm of the attendees, created an atmosphere that was both exclusive and wonderfully communal.

From the moment the lights dimmed, the stage became a canvas for delight.

This particular adaptation of “Twelfth Night,” featuring the captivating music and lyrics by Shaina Taub, transformed Shakespeare’s comedy of errors and mistaken identities into a jubilant, song-filled spectacle. Taub's score, weaving seamlessly with the Bard's prose, elevated the narrative, drawing cheers and spontaneous applause from the captivated crowd.

The performances were nothing short of brilliant.

Nikki M. James, as the disguised Viola, delivered a portrayal brimming with nuance, humor, and a touching vulnerability that resonated deeply. Her journey through Illyria, fraught with romantic entanglements and poignant self-discovery, was a masterclass in stage presence. Equally captivating was Andrew Kober as Feste, whose comedic timing and musical prowess provided the perfect counterpoint, embodying the spirit of the wise fool with delightful precision.

The entire ensemble, under the expert direction, created a world both fantastical and deeply human, where love's folly and the pursuit of happiness took center stage.

The Delacorte, as always, proved to be more than just a venue; it was an integral character in the unfolding drama, its open-air charm amplifying the production's natural warmth and intimacy.

As the final notes faded and the audience rose for a thunderous ovation, there was a collective understanding that something truly special had occurred.

“Twelfth Night” at the Delacorte wasn't merely a performance; it was an experience—a vibrant, musical, and star-studded kickoff to summer that reminded everyone present of the enduring power of art to bring people together, under one magical, starlit sky.