BUTTERFIELD 8 Theatre Company once again re-imagined its versatile space at Cue Productions Live with a sensual production of Shakespeare's "As You Like It," adapted by assistant artistic director Maureen-Theresa Williams.

The company has a history of moving playing space and audience around to best suit each production. What could be better for "The Importance of Being Earnest" than for the audience to drink tea at cute little tables while also enjoying the performance? For the romantic comedy "As You Like It," the action unfolds in the middle of the audience, which is seated in rows on either side.

Director John Butterfield sets the mood with a flowing summary of the characters' relationships told through dance-like movements to a jazzy version of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow," a very useful device given The Bard's complicated plot. Butterfield and Nick Wong use colorful umbrellas to bring the various characters on and off the stage until Wong disappears to return as the power-hungry Oliver, with Butterfield and his orange umbrella clarifying action and helping characters throughout the show.

As with many of Shakespeare's plays, this one involves two sets of brothers in conflict and two young women with a bond stronger than sisters. One of the young women, of course, must pretend to be a man as the two escape to Arden Forest.

Butterfield has found a wonderful cast to bring Shakespeare's delightful comedy

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to life, which includes some very realistic fight scenes. Several actors have the opportunity to test their prowess playing contrasting roles. Donald Hardy was especially effective, as both the Duke living in exile and as his usurping brother, Frederick. Also effective was Eddie Peabody, who played both a philosophical friend to the banished duke and a ruthless wrestler for Frederick. Meggy Hai Trang (Rosalind) and Daniela Quinones (Celia) easily conveyed the closeness and the spirit of the young women who dared to defy Frederick and flee to the perils of the forest. Although the acting was well-done, the performers were almost upstaged by two cute little goat hand puppets that followed the saucy shepherdess Audrey (well-done by Jennifer Peabody).

"As You Like It" continues at Cue Productions Live in Concord through Dec. 5. Call 510-282-6174 or go to www.b8company.com.

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    Twenty-three years ago, Richard James starred in Center Rep's production of "A Christmas Carol," with Bill Toaspern as Marley's Ghost. Now, both actors have adapted their own productions of Dickens' famous tale.

    Center Rep celebrates the 12th year of presenting James' adaptation. while Toaspern's version premieres this year at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church.

    Producer Claire Toaspern says they hope to revive the dramatic arts among the congregation.

    "We have the space, and we have the talent," she said. "We encourage families to enjoy this intimate, lively production featuring Dale Nicoll as Scrooge and Craig Beattie as Marley's Ghost."

    Toaspern's "A Christmas Carol" runs Dec. 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. The suggested donation is $5 adult, $3 child and $12 for families. Call 925-934-4208.

    For information on Center Rep's tale of the miserly "Scrooge," which runs Dec. 10-20 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek, call 925-943-SHOW or go to www.lesherartscenter.org.

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    And speaking of Scrooge, Town Hall Theatre in Lafayette presents "Scrooge" Dec. 3-20. Based on the 1970 movie starring Albert Finney, this musical retelling of the Dickens classic tale is directed by Jessica Richards and features John Blytt as Scrooge, with artistic director Clive Worsley as Bob Cratchit and Randy Anger as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Mr. Fezziwig, and Mr. Pringle. For tickets, call 925-283-1557 or go online to www.townhalltheatre.com.

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    Its almost time for the 24th annual Christmas Revels. This year's celebration features the music, dance, talk, tales and traditions of Old Bavaria. It takes place Dec. 11-20 at the beautiful Scottish Rite Theatre on Lake Merritt in Oakland. Call 510-452-8800 or go to www.californiarevels.org.

    Reach Sally Hogarty at sallyhogarty@gmail.com