The sophomore BFA class’s performance of Shakespeare reminds the audience that being lewd was often central to performances in English Renaissance Theater. In this production of Measure for Measure the pre-show consists of a flamboyant striptease, often involving audience members in lap dances. This seemingly “bad behavior” was for a purpose: showing the audience the city of Vienna in a state of flux while the Duke passes legal responsibility to his magistrate, Angelo (played by Liam Benzvi). When the party stops, the lights turn on and the businesses that were once prosperous are now morally objectionable. Of course those who go to Measure for Measure intending to see a high class production of one of Shakespeare’s most problematic “problem plays” will get what they want from the brilliant cast members including the Duke, played by Angie Janas. This directorial choice (casting the Duke as a woman) makes the dynamics of a play with a seemingly nonsensical love story (between the Duke and Isabella, a novice nun, played by a woman as well) much more nuanced and believable. This production has an advantage by portraying the Duke’s elaborate plot as an inconspicuous front for the Duke to confront her lover. Suzy Kohane and Andrea Gonzales also bend genders in hilarious ways (Kohane’s verbose portrayal of the pimp, Pompey, in contrast to her timid and frail Friar Peter was brilliant). It’s refreshing to see Shakespeare without so much starch in the collar.

Blue hairs beware.