‘Twas common, in 1600’s Europe, to marry one’s cousin, and for both women’s and men’s hats to sport elaborate plumage atop complex layers of rich fabrics. Unlike today’s “whatever bro’” fashion ethos, men sported velvet capes, brocaded tunics, lace and even tights with heeled shoes which were de rigeur… This elaborate dreamy world lends itself to a heroic and tragic love story, and makes for magnificent theater! Cyrano de Bergerac is a classic, and though it was not written by Shakespeare, is a perfect choice for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. The language, as the clothing, is richly detailed, dense and complex; to the modern ear, it can be difficult to follow. Yet, happily, if given a chance and with concerted effort, even the distracted modern mind can become one with the verse and appreciate it’s meanderings.
The play has a large cast, mixes formality with a good amount of bawdiness and comedy; love, passion, conflict and simple misunderstandings that could easily be resolved (but aren’t, like any good RomCom!). Such is the case with Cyrano. I’m not spoiling anything by saying that the plot of Cyrano de Bergerac is that the lead character is a proud, witty man of many beautiful words and one ugly nose. He’s in love with his lovely cousin, Roxanne, but she’s in love with a very handsome man, Cristiano. That handsome man is equally in love with her but he’s well aware that he’s klutzy and inept when it comes to wooing a woman with words. Cyrano, despite his battlefield bravado, lacks self-esteem and confidence when it comes to the ladies; he agrees to be Cristiano’s voice on paper and even in person. This sleight works and Roxanne falls ever deeper in love with the words, if not the man.. Of course, things happen and eventually, finally, Roxanne finds out that Cyrano was the heart and soul behind who she really loved – and what she truly love was not mere good looks. Alas, it is too late…
It’s a cautionary tale about not judging people by their appearance, about being forthright with people, and not wasting time when there is someone you really love.
Scott Coopwood’s Cyrano is raw, confident, wounded, complicated and funny; his performance is outstanding and believable. His magnetism and pent-up emotions won over the audience. Brynn Tucker, the lovely Roxanne, was full of grace and all aflutter over Christian, inspired by his looks. She was a complex blend of naive, sweet, and yet somewhat manipulative, knowing that her dear cousin would do anything for her – just maybe not fully why he would do so. Marco Robinson’s Christian is likeable. He knows he’s good-looking but he is painfully aware that beyond his looks and bravery, he is a bit lacking. His most powerful offering is his love for Roxanne.
The Mary Rippon Outdoor Theater is a stunner and helps the actors’ performances connect with the audience in an authentic and intimate way. The two-story set lends itself to many looks and does it well. The production uses the amphitheater to good effect, with actors entering and exiting through the rows (watch your feet!). The audience, seated on rustic hewn stone benches (don’t worry – everyone gets a free padded seatback upon entering!), enjoys clear sightlines, views of the Flat Irons and the surrounding greenery. Yes, the theater is open-air, so as the play begins, the sun sets and night falls, bringing sultry breezes across the audience. It’s dreamy and sensual. (Note – it can also bring rain, so bring a poncho as umbrellas are not permitted! Some plays are indoors in the University Theater Building; check schedule for details if you seek an outdoor experience.)
The Festival experience can begin even before patrons are let into the theater. Attendees may bring their own picnics (but no alcohol) and spread out on the front lawn outside of the Box Office, taking in the beautiful scenery of the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Through an arch, adjacent to the theater, is the Shakespeare Garden with big, beautiful trees providing lots of shade on the grass. Flower beds ring the courtyard, each inspired by Shakespeare’s plays, dotted with signs showing the Bard’s many notable quotes. (There may even be strolling minstrels!) In lieu of packing and lugging your own picnic, order a lovely picnic from Savory Cuisines Catering out of Boulder. The incredibly friendly and welcoming staff offers up appetizers such as hummus and veggies, a gorgeous fruit and cheese plate, an overly-simple name for a box that includes fig jam, dried apricots, four cheeses and more. Sandwiches on our visit included Muffuletta and Chicken Salad – both hearty and delicious. Baked goods such as cookies and brownies end the meal sweetly. Beer, wine and other beverages and snacks are also available for sale and may be taken into the theater.
Cyrano de Bergerac is joined by Richard III, Love’s Labor’s Lost, Edward III and You Can’t Take it with You. Visit the website for exact dates and to purchase tickets. A night at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival in the outdoor theater is a memorable Colorado experience – one not to be missed.
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