Review and Synopsis of “The Winter’s Tale” at Invictus Theatre

The Winter’s Tale at Invictus Theatre is a story of reproach, remorse and reconciliation. This Shakespeare play directed by Charles Askenaizer has something for everyone. It is both tragedy and romantic comedy with sorrow, absurdity, mirth and fantasy.

The adept Invictus Theatre Company demonstrates that you do not have to travel to Navy Pier to enjoy Shakespeare.

These most artful players do employ such mastery in their deeds and such clarity of tongue and fair enunciation, that, joined with the noble and skillful quill of the Bard himself, thou shalt have but little toil to grasp the tale and the deeds unfolding afore thine eyes.

There are a number of roles played brilliantly by various age diverse actors which reminds me of the adage, “there are no small roles – – only small actors.” This very capable Invictus crew has no small actors. Everyone contributes to the story and their roles are capably performed.

Cast includes Michael Stejskal as the jealous King Leontes. Andrea Uppling as Hermione. Completing the suspected love triangle as Polixenes is Raúl Alonso. Florizel, the prince who becomes betrothed to Perdita, is played by Robert Hunter Bry. Amber Dow is Hermione’s devoted friend Paulina.

Completing 16-person cast are Jennifer Agather (Perdita/Maximillus), Kim Pereira (Camillo), Fred A. Wellisch (Antigonus/Bohemian Ensemble/Musician), Carolyn Waldee (Emilia, Mopsa, Lord/Musician), Sam Nachison (Autolycus/Lord), Chuck Munro (Shepherd/Lord), Kyle Quinlivan (Clown/Lord/Musician/Archidamus), Sydney René Cox (Lady 3/Lord/Servant/Dorcas/Musician), George Dougherty (Ensemble/Officer/Lord/Time), Megan Erin Lai (Ensemble/Lady 2/Shepherdess (Musician), Diego Rivera-Rodriguez (Mariner/Lord/Bohemian Ensemble), and Jose Yantin Jr. (Ensemble/The Bear, U/S: Autolycus/Florizel).

The Winter’s Tale by Invictus Theatre Company is at the Windy City Playhouse, 3014 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago through April 20, 2025. Running time is about 2-1/2 hours with one intermission. For information visit www.invictustheatreco.com