This week, SouthBank Shakespeare opened Twelfth Night at the Thomas More University Observatory Lawn. This production is the perfect summer experience for audiences of all ages.
The Story
There is something fitting about watching Twelfth Night outdoors on a warm summer evening. SouthBank Shakespeare’s latest production embraces that feeling completely, presenting Shakespeare’s beloved comedy under the open sky in a way that feels both accessible and true to the spirit of how these plays were originally experienced. Performed free of charge on the Thomas More University Observatory Lawn, this production invites audiences from all walks of life to gather with lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and friends for an evening of theatre that feels as communal as it does entertaining.
Twelfth Night is one of the most beloved comedies by William Shakespeare about a young woman, Viola (Natalie Hayslett) who finds herself alone in an unfamiliar place after a shipwreck. To protect herself, she takes on a new identity, which leads to a series of mix-ups and misunderstandings. As different characters search for love and happiness, the story becomes increasingly complicated but remains light and humorous; making it a favorite of Shakespeare afficionados and newbies alike.
Performances
Among the standout performances, R. Graham Rogers delivers a memorable Sir Toby Belch. Rogers captures the character’s larger-than-life personality without taking it too far. His comedic timing is sharp and he consistently finds new ways to draw laughs from both the text and his interactions with fellow cast members. Rogers proves more than capable of carrying the humor as Sir Toby’s mischief unfolds throughout the production.
Liz Carman is equally impressive as Maria. Clever, confident, and quick-witted, Carman brings a sense of intelligence to the role. Her chemistry with the other members of the comedy trio helps ground some of the play’s more outrageous moments. Maria’s involvement in the infamous prank against Malvolio becomes one of the production’s highlights.
Gavin Borchers rounds out the trio of standout comedic performances as Sir Andrew Aguecheek. Borchers fully commits to the character’s foolishness, creating a Sir Andrew who is both ridiculous and oddly endearing. His physical comedy is particularly effective. Rather than playing the role as merely clueless, Borchers finds moments of genuine charm that make Sir Andrew’s failures even more amusing.
The Collective Vibrance of the Ensemble
What takes this production to the next level is not the work of a single performer but the collective vibrance of the ensemble. From the opening of the production, the performers create an atmosphere that encourages audience participation. Their energy proves contagious, leading to a level of audience buy-in that takes away any distractions that can be had when working in an outdoor space. The cast works together seamlessly, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes the audience feel like part of the event. Families with young children, long-time Shakespeare enthusiasts, and even the random passerby alike seemed equally engaged throughout the evening.
Twelfth Night succeeds largely because it understands the play’s playful nature. Director Phillip Webster allows the comedy, confusion, and energy of Shakespeare’s text to shine through. The result is a production that feels light on its feet and genuinely welcoming.
Overall
SouthBank Shakespeare continues to demonstrate the value of accessible Arts. By removing financial barriers and presenting classic works in an outdoor setting, the company creates opportunities for audiences who might otherwise never experience live Shakespeare. On a beautiful summer night, surrounded by friends, neighbors, and fellow theatre lovers, it becomes easy to understand why these plays have endured for centuries.
Twelfth Night runs all weekend, and it is well worth packing a chair or blanket and heading to the Thomas More University Observatory Lawn to enjoy an evening of laughter, community, and Shakespeare under the summer sky.
Oh, and please donate–what ever you can afford–into the little Halloween bucket on your way out.
Performance Information
Twelfth Night runs through June 21, 2026, at the Thomas More University Observatory lawn located at 475 Thomas More Pkwy, Crestview Hills, KY 41017. Click HERE for more info.
This is the first year SouthBank Shakespeare is a member of LCT. Go out and support this young company!
Shelby Coleman has a background in theatre education and dance, including the Director of Artistic and Educational Programs with the Surry Arts Council in North Carolina where she directed, choreographed, designed and taught for students throughout North Carolina and Virginia. She has a background in teaching students diagnosed with various physical, mental, and learning disabilities. Shelby has taught at various institutes across the country including Lexington Children’s Theatre, Missoula Children’s Theatre, StageRight MTC Inc, Morehead State University, Cincinnati Public Schools, Boone County Public Libraries, Kenton County Public Libraries, Grant County Public Libraries and now The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.
