The moment one leaves home for the first time — whether to explore, get an education, or simply find oneself — is a universal experience. Almost everyone can relate to it, Shakespeare included. He wrote Two Gentlemen of Verona early on in his career, but much like his other plays, its messages are timeless. That’s exactly what Travis Xavier set out to explore in this modern “hop-hop” adaptation titled In Gentle Verona.
This version follows the same plot structure of Shakespeare’s original play: two best friends part ways as they venture into adulthood, only to find themselves reunited but torn apart by their shared love for the same woman. Proteus has a girlfriend from his hometown but is disloyal to her in pursuit of Sylvia, who is in love with Valentine, his best friend. The story then details the destruction of bonds and the roots of treachery, as well as the strength of friendship and trust, as these two men struggle to reconcile their desires with their promises.
Part of the issue modern audiences run into with Shakespeare’s plays is the language, as it is not what we’re used to in the 21st century. However, this production kept the dialogue at an upbeat pace that fed into the overall energy of the cast. The lines were punchy, and the delivery was crisp, adding to the modern feel of this production. Throughout the show, the cast proved that they understood the text as they worked to convey it in a modern setting. Highlights from the cast include Alexandra Fenton as Lance, whose bold acting choices and strong commitment to the comedic value of the character kept audience members on their toes; Ali Lightfield as Julia, whose tenacity and determination had the audience rooting for her; and Alec Schneller as Proteus, whose moral dilemma and constant charisma pinpointed him from the get-go as a crucial character to the story. Overall, the cast dynamics were fun, funny, and upbeat, much like any frat house you might find.
A significant change from the original Shakespeare text to this adaptation is where the show is set — right here in DC! This distinct change is made clear right away with the fun DC elements littered throughout the set, like a poster of the Washington Monument. The entire scenic design by Harlan D. Penn introduces the audience to the updated setting from the moment you enter the theater. Another design element accentuating the modern setting is the costumes. Each character had clear color motifs that delineated where bonds were made (and perhaps also where they could be broken), and the added use of modern patterns and silhouettes by costume designer Emily Vallozzi helped define characters’ personalities from the moment they stepped on stage.
This play isn’t performed often anymore, as is noted by dramaturg Eve Parent, because of the controversial ending where Proteus attempts to force himself on Silvia before being stopped by Valentine. Despite the intense ending, the cast and director did a great job taking care with that moment and being sure to highlight the condemning of Proteus by other characters for this action. This moment also speaks to another key motif this production team sought to highlight: the integration of modern voices and cultures into these traditional plays. Parent goes on in their statement to emphasize the importance of “putting Shakespeare in direct conversation with Black culture” so that more diverse people have a chance to connect with Shakespeare’s relevant themes in ways that weren’t possible when these plays were first written.
In Gentle Verona is a spunky, modern, and funny adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s earliest works that stays true to the core of the original while still leaving room for modernity and new challenging questions and themes to be explored.
Running Time: Two hours with a 10-minute intermission.
In Gentle Verona plays through March 2, 2025, presented by the Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at George Washington University performing in the Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre, University Student Center – 800 21st Street NW, Washington, DC. For tickets ($20 adult, $10 seniors/students), purchase them at the door or online.
In Gentle Verona
Adapted and directed by Travis Xavier