Such Eruptions and Sudden Breaking-Out of Mirth

Flatwater Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor’s Lost continues for two more weekends at the Swan at Wyuka, starting Thursday.

Some quick observations from the opening performances:

Annemarie Aspengren contributes evocative music throughout the show, culminating in a Gilbert-and-Sullivanesque setting for the final song.

Will Bennett and Tom Bolin alternate admirably as Forester / Marcade.

Alice Bolin is charmingly vulnerable as Jaquenetta.

Rob Burt, as Longaville, combines elegance with appealing insecurity.

Sam Colwell almost steals the show as Moth.

Stephen A. Gaines, as Nathaniel, offers a priceless version of the actor’s nightmare.

Richard Imig, in the role of Dull, provides wonderful grounding and reactions.

Amy Jirsa is luminous with bright wit and warm affection as Rosaline.

Julie Kinkennon, as Katharine, delivers wit sharply – and self-protectively.

Larry Mota, in the role of Costard, contributes breathtakingly quick comebacks.

Dick Nielsen, as Holofernes, creates a completely ludicrous and sympathetic character.

Dave Owens convincingly conveys both authority and chagrin as the King of Navarre.

Sean Schmeits inflects Berowne’s compelling language with lofty scorn and humble hurt.

Rich Sibley, as Boyet, channels Maurice Chevalier’s experienced Gallic wisdom.

Jan Stauffer has created lovely period costumes and hilarious garb for the "Muscovites" and the Worthies.

Clay Stevens embodies youthful zeal for honor and love.

Fred Stuart, as Armado, creates a completely sympathetic and ludicrous character.

Lettie Van Hemert is commanding and irresistible as the Princess of France.

Mikael Walter, as Maria, is shyly assertive.

Michelle Zinke and Deb Waechter, from backstage, make it all work.

Ember Schrag gets things started engagingly with her songs.

And, oh yes, I guess Bob Hall did OK as director.

Call 484-7640 for tickets! Or visit www.flatwatershakespeare.org