FIRST LOOK AT JONATHAN GROFF IN THE RSC’S AS YOU LIKE IT
The Royal Shakespeare Company has unveiled the first production images of Tony Award-winning actor Jonathan Groff in As You Like It, as he makes his highly anticipated RSC debut in a bold new staging of Shakespeare’s much-loved romantic comedy.
Photo Credit: (c) Marc Brenner
Directed by Daniel Evans, the production sees Groff take on the role of Rosalind alongside an all-male cast, bringing a fresh perspective to one of Shakespeare’s most playful explorations of love, identity and transformation. Now playing at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon until 7 November 2026, the production reimagines Shakespeare’s enchanting Forest of Arden as a world where romance, mistaken identities and unexpected encounters unfold.
At the heart of the story is Rosalind, who, after being banished from court, escapes into the forest disguised as a young man named Ganymede. Accompanied by her devoted cousin Celia, she soon encounters Orlando, the man she loves, who remains unaware of her true identity. What follows is a wonderfully tangled game of romance and disguise, as Rosalind sets out to teach Orlando the art of love.
Photo Credit: (c) Marc Brenner
Groff leads an impressive ensemble featuring Fisayo Akinade as Celia, Elliot Barnes-Worrell as Orlando, Greg Haiste as Touchstone and Gary Wilmot in the dual roles of Duke Frederick and Duke Senior. Multi-award-winning actor and RSC Associate Artist Richard McCabe also returns to the company as the melancholic Jaques.
Known for its wit, music and celebration of love in all its forms, As You Like It is among Shakespeare’s most joyful comedies. Evans' interpretation embraces the play's fluid exploration of gender and identity, with an all-male company bringing its colourful characters and romantic entanglements to life. The production features set design by Anisha Fields, costumes by Colin Richmond and lighting by Ryan Day, with music composed and arranged by Theo Jamieson. Movement direction is by Michela Meazza, with fight direction by Kev McCurdy.
Photo Credit: (c) Marc Brenner
Combining Shakespeare’s timeless humour with a contemporary theatrical approach, this new staging invites audiences into a world where conventional rules are turned upside down and love takes centre stage.
As You Like It runs at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, until 7 November 2026, with tickets available from £10.
For tickets and further information, visit www.rsc.org.uk.