The Music of As You Like It
Joy, pure and simple. Jeremiah Godley and Nina Renkert share their experience working on the music of Shakespeare’s As You Like It to be performed by Teen Troupe at the end of April. As You Like It is known as a musical comedy because of the number of songs in the play. There are more songs in it than in any other play of Shakespeare. The lyrics are incorporated in the action that takes place in the forest of Arden and each production decides on music to accompany them. Godley and Renkert have joined forces to write music that adds magic and levity to a heartfelt show filled with youthful romance. "We were rehearsing a few weeks ago, and we just clicked," says Renkert about the process, "suddenly we were jumping and dancing around."
Jeremiah after his first show with Elm Shakespeare.
Jeremiah has performed in Elm Shakespeare Shows since he was 10. He told a story of being drawn in by the swords, costumes, and theatrics of Shakespeare. His first play was Romeo and Juliet, where he played The Chorus, a role he proudly stated was perfect for him. Godley mentioned his work with Sarah Bowles and how she added music and dancing to the production. Those aspects made that first play that much more enjoyable to create.
As You Like It will be Nina's first show with Elm Shakespeare, but not her first experience with the Bard. The 2020 Willington High School graduate is passionate about Shakespeare's works, noting his plays' flexible and transformative nature. Nina is also a part of the Youth of Elm Shakespeare Advisory Council, a group of young adults who collaborate with the company's Board of Directors to incorporate the needs, desires, and perspectives of Elm Shakespeare's students and the Greater New Haven Community.
The show's music draws from many genres, including show tunes, folk music, and sea shanties. The focus is on catchy and fun music that brings people together. The teens are so excited to have the show be seen, with safety as a top priority. "I hope the show brings back the passion of theater," says Godley, "after everything in the past year, I hope they see young people passionate about this art."
Godley performed as Le Beau and Amiens; and Renkert as Duke’s Senior Lord, and Hymen the God of Marriage in the Teen Troupe performances of As You Like It April 30 and May 2, 2021.
