Twelfth Night: Shakespeare Stars in Lower Field

By Sophie Fischer ‘23
Golda Och Academy’s high school production of “Twelfth Night, or, What You Will,” represents a new era for student life and culture moving forward from quarantine-based digital performances, bringing joy and hope to the GOA audiences on the US lower field.

The play itself, while a challenge for student actors, was a classic and entertaining Shakespearean play. Although originally four hours long, this production of “Twelfth Night,” like most modern adaptations, was cut in half.
According to director and theater teacher Mz. Ricciardi, the play is “one of Shakespeare’s most iconic comedies and is all about love transcending all obstacles: shipwrecks, mistaken identity, status, gender… The themes are relevant and relatable, yet the language is complex, beautiful yet challenging, and at times, archaic.”
Senior Ava Lane, a seasoned GOA performer, expressed her excitement at her friends’ take on the Shakespeare comedy. “This interpretation of Twelfth Night was especially special because the cast jumped into it with such enthusiasm,” she said. “It was so much fun to watch!”
Unlike last year’s performance of “She Kills Monsters,” the “Twelfth Night” cast had the option to go maskless. Luckily for the audience, outdoor seating was also unlimited, unlike previous plays in the Multi-Purpose Room where seats were scarce and tickets had to be purchased beforehand.
“[Our production of] ‘Twelfth Night’ felt like a step in a good direction for the arts as we were able to … return to performing without masks,” commented Junior Sam Reinhard, who played the character of Duke Orsino. “It felt much more normal, natural, and fun being able to see each other's faces and expressions… it also allowed the audience to understand our feelings … despite it being hard for many to understand Shakespeare.”
Taking on such a huge project was ambitious for everyone involved. “Directing this production was equal parts exhilarating and challenging,” said Mz. Ricciardi. “As with every production, my hope is to offer the cast and crew a wonderful theatrical experience which showcases them as an ensemble and pushes them to new heights.”
Her hope was clearly fulfilled, with sophomore cast members Sonya Katz and Katriela Nelkin gushing over the experience.
​“‘Twelfth Night’” was an opportunity for me to bond and connect with others who have similar interests,” explained Katz. “It helped me find my inner circle within the… GOA community.”
Nelkin added that “Shakespeare can be challenging to perform and understand, but we put on a spectacular performance. It was a very positive experience to work with such a dedicated and talented cast and crew.”
The newest element to this production was a student director, with junior Josh Lancman bringing his literary analysis skills, historical knowledge and film background to the show, assisting Mz. Ricciardi every step of the way.
“It was wonderful to finally be able to student-direct on this amazing production,” said Josh. “I have always wanted to be a student director... Mz. Ricciardi finally gave me a chance, and I hope I was successful!”
Overall, Twelfth Night was another step forward in Golda Och’s Arts Department, and its students’ theatrical skills.
“Alongside my marvelous cast and crew, we worked together to create a show that would feel accessible and enjoyable for all (especially for our audiences!). This production was a real gem, and the highlight of my year thus far,” said Mz. Ricciardi. “Cheers Twelfth Nighters!”