Folger Theatre's 'As You Like It' Offers a Love Letter to DC

The production reimagines Shakespeare's classic comedy as a celebration of the city's diverse cultural heart beyond its political center.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:18pm

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Folger Theatre's production of 'As You Like It', directed by Timothy Douglas, frames the Shakespearean comedy as a 'love letter to DC', exploring the city's cultural depth beyond its political center. The production features a talented cast and creative design elements that contrast the formality of the court with the vibrant community of the reimagined Forest of Arden, which represents neighborhoods from Anacostia to U Street. However, the production sometimes simplifies the very culture it aims to honor, and the soundscape fails to fully capture the rhythms of DC's musical identity.

Why it matters

This production of 'As You Like It' is an attempt to reframe Shakespeare's classic work through the lens of Washington, DC's diverse cultural landscape, challenging assumptions about the city and highlighting the rich artistic and community-driven spirit that exists beyond the political sphere. It invites audiences to see the nation's capital in a new light, recognizing that the city's cultural heart beats in its neighborhoods and people, not just its monuments and government institutions.

The details

The production features a strong cast, including Tsilala Brock as Rosalind and Sabrina Lynne Sawyer as Celia, who bring warmth and intelligence to their roles. Scenic designer Gisela Estrada's set contrasts the formal court scenes with a vibrant, mural-covered landscape representing the Forest of Arden, while costume designer Celeste Jennings' designs further emphasize the distinction between the two worlds. Manu Kumasi's portrayal of Orlando effectively flips the stereotype of the 'uncivilized' outsider entering the community, and Ahmad Kamal's Touchstone leans into a modern, chaotic presence. However, the production sometimes relies on visual shorthand rather than fully realizing the cultural elements it aims to celebrate, and the soundscape fails to capture the rhythms of DC's musical identity.

  • The production runs through April 12, 2026 at the Folger Theatre in Washington, DC.

The players

Karen Ann Daniels

The Artistic Director of Folger Theatre, who framed the production as a 'love letter to DC'.

Timothy Douglas

The director who stepped in to helm the production just days before rehearsals began.

Tsilala Brock

The actress who portrays Rosalind in the production.

Sabrina Lynne Sawyer

The actress who plays Celia, Rosalind's cousin, and is a familiar face to Folger Theatre audiences.

Manu Kumasi

The actor who plays Orlando, effectively flipping the stereotype of the 'uncivilized' outsider entering the community.

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The takeaway

Folger Theatre's production of 'As You Like It' is an ambitious attempt to reframe Shakespeare's classic work through the lens of Washington, DC's diverse cultural landscape, inviting audiences to see the nation's capital in a new light. While the production sometimes simplifies the very culture it aims to honor, it succeeds in challenging assumptions and highlighting the rich artistic and community-driven spirit that exists beyond the political sphere.