Katie Nowak | Actor & Stage Manager
As You Like It
Audrey/U/S Touchstone
by William Shakespeare | dir. Mark Lococo | Fall 2023
Reflection
This semester, I had the pleasure of being part of Loyola University Chicago's Fall 2023 rendition of William Shakespeare's As You Like It. The journey spanned two months, encompassing rehearsals and performances that proved to be both enriching and transformative. Throughout this period, I cultivated creative bonds, molded a nuanced character, and adeptly navigated the intricate language of Shakespeare. Additionally, the experience fostered a newfound appreciation for nature through in-person recreational activities, contributing to an overall positive and fulfilling venture.
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Primarily, I leveraged this production as an opportunity to forge new friendships and creative connections that may not have solidified otherwise. As a senior, most of my social circles had already taken shape. Nevertheless, the influx of new faces, primarily underclassmen, presented a chance to extend support and camaraderie. Remembering the uncertainty of being new to the department, I found it gratifying to assist these budding actors and technicians in acclimating to the intricacies of our shared pursuit. Working alongside the directorial team outside the classroom context marked significant professional development, exposing me to diverse directing styles embodied by Mark Lococo and Robby Lehman. The collaborative effort of this production's ensemble played a pivotal role in elevating the overall experience.
Secondly, I delved into the challenge of embodying a character in a Shakespearean production for the first time. Playing Audrey, a simple-minded goatherd enamored with the foolish clown Touchstone, provided a unique vantage point to observe my fellow actors. While my role was somewhat limited, I used this time on the sidelines for keen observation. Wrestling with the constraints placed on women's agency in the Elizabethan era, I infused Audrey with a bold and assertive demeanor, subtly challenging the societal norms of the time. This character exploration connected with Loyola's mission of justice, as I endeavored to provide depth and agency to a character who had been overlooked. In essence, Audrey became a vehicle for me to closely observe and appreciate the nuances of my colleagues' performances.
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Thirdly, this production served as a catalyst for improving my connection with nature. Given the play's woodland setting, the cast dedicated a rehearsal day to immerse themselves in a nature conservatory. This experience reignited my commitment to environmental preservation, as I witnessed the impact of negative human actions on natural landscapes. Motivated by this renewed passion, I aspire to contribute to the cause of environmental justice through continued learning and advocacy. The play underscored the importance of reconnecting with our primal roots, and I look forward to incorporating this awareness into my life.
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In conclusion, the Loyola production of As You Like It proved to be a profoundly positive experience, both in terms of grappling with Shakespeare's artistry and fostering a deeper commitment to environmentalism. The lessons learned and connections made during this production are invaluable assets that I aim to leverage in both my career and endeavors for the betterment of the planet.
