As You Like It
by William Shakespeare
The Watermill Theatre
Director: Paul Hart
Lighting Designer: Tom White
Photographer: Pamela Raith
Its bigger message is on environmental change and Katie Lias’s set design carries that symbolism: the court, filled with empty oil drums, is part construction site and part derelict greenhouse where characters wear hard-hats and hi-vis vests. The lush forest of Arden blends into the theatre’s grounds so that we are not only told that “all the world’s a stage” but understand that this stage is our own world, too, and needs rewilding.
- The Guardian
Designer Katie Lias’ set and costumes are made from recycled materials to amplify the environmental theme that permeates the production
- The Stage
But don't get the idea that this passionate commitment [to climate justice] edges the evening into preachiness. You would have to read designer Katie Lias' programme note to realise that her attractive set framed by apparently rustic window frames does indeed incorporate elements of scenery and props from previous Watermill productions. So too, she says, do the costumes that have just the right contrast between uptight three-piece city slicker suits for Duke Frederick's court and a relaxed, practical ‘preloved' look for Duke Senior's alternative court in the Forest of Arden.
- WhatsOnStage
Katie Lias’s industrial set littered with oil drums, rustic door frames and windows, wooden ladders and general detritus constructed from recyclable sustainable materials reflects the chaos and turmoil existing in the court of the Duke Frederick
- British Theatre Guide
The Warehouse from Act I quickly transforms into an eco-shelter (the whole set is commendably made of recycled materials), bedecked with creeping vines, fairy lights and guitars.
- Wokingham Today
the set design by Katie Lias is a perfect example of reducing, re-using and recycling.
- Musical Theatre Review
