by Jody Tuso-Key: Managing Editor

Altanta Shakespeare Company is offering up the legendary THREE MUSKETEERS at the wonderful Shakespeare Tavern until June 30th. As you might imagine, with an English professor and theater/film lover for a father, THE THREE MUSKETEERS has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. I think I’ve seen every film version ever made. Even so, I’ve never had the opportunity to see a live production of The Musketeers (not to be confused with the Disney nod–the Mouseketeers, which I watched as long as I can remember as well). What I took away from this show was a new appreciation for an old classic.

One phrase to sum up this show is “a plethora of amazing swordplay!” If you enjoy action and adventure paired with great food and drink, you will love this show!! The production is also family friendy, so bring the kids for a rollicking good time.

As always, the Tavern has a stage that emulates the Globe, with multiple entrances, including through the audience. In every production, the actors utilize the space in fun and unique ways. The show is about the performances, and the lights, costumes, props, and live music tell the story beautifully.

The show has 15 characters, many of which play multiple roles with many costume changes. Several of them also pull double duty as merrymakers playing instruments. In my estimation, to be a Shakespearean actor is the pinnacle of performance, and many of these performers are part of the company and have performed in multiple productions so that if you are a season ticket holder or frequent patron, you will get to see and know these performers. They always form a reception line at the end of the show as well as host frequent talk-back sessions after shows.

Stand-out performances for me included Daryel T Monson as D’artangnan who was perfectly cast; Anna Holland as Sabine who brought fire and sass and ‘one for all’ to a pivotal female role; of course, the legendary Athos, Porthos, and Aramis (Benedetto Robinson, O’Neil Delapenha, and Kevin Roost), each of which complemented each other yet stood on their own merit; Imani Joseph as Queen Anne/Ensemble whose villainous nature was admirable; and Adam King as Cardinal Richelieu/Ensemble the Musketeer’s archnemesis who embodies the sinful humanity of the clergy in a quest for power and control.

This book by Ken Ludwig paired with the direction of Andrew Houchins makes for a thrilling, fun, and hilarious show. I must also say kudos to Anne Carole Butler and Clint Horne for the beautiful costumes, Greg Hanthorn, Jr. for the flawless light design, The Guin Twins for the meticulous fight scenes, and Sound Designer Amy L. Levin for the spot-on foley effects. The entire cast and crew also deserve a hearty HUZZAH!!

This show only runs until June 30th and tickets are an affordable $26-$48, so hurry and get your tickets at Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse today!