Mother nature smiled kindly on a preview audience for Hobnob Theatre’s “As You Like It” by William Shakespeare. Preston Park at twilight Wednesday set the stage for the promenade-style production through the historical park in Butler Township.

The show opens to the public Friday night.

Aptly set in a forest, this lighthearted philosophical comedy is Shakespeare’s take on the highs and lows of love. The production features a 19-member cast of characters who make for a delightful frolic in the forest.

Megan Flannery plays Rosalind, the first to get bitten by the love bug.

And yes, it’s a park and there are bugs, so just be prepared for the outdoors.

Comfortable shoes, a jacket, and a chair or a blanket will help to make the show more enjoyable.

Flannery expertly captures the dual character of Rosalind.

Her playful chemistry with her adorable cousin, Celia, portrayed by Carly McCann, was more than believable. The pair’s comedic timing was most enjoyable during the woodland scene where Celia is trying to describe her meeting Orlando in the forest.

Orlando, who is Rosalind’s love interest, was played enthusiastically by Andrew Hutmire whose character was equally as smitten.

His overbearing and cocky brother was played by the talented and villainous Justin Anderson.

The duo was up in arms in the typical Cain and Abel fashion under the watchful eye of Adam, who was actually their manservant. Bob Meals played the bumbling yet loyal family servant with great flair for the dramatic.

The amusing Touchstone who set off to accompany the cousins was skillfully played by Daniel Williams, whose delivery and impish quality were perfect for the part.

Audrey, the shepherdess who lost more than her sheep, was played by the sassy Alex Aspiazu who complemented the edgy Williams as they portrayed one of the more coupled couples.

Doing double Duke duty was Stephen Fogle who played not only the blind and bitter Duke Frederick but also the sublime and swanky Duke Senior. He rocked both the roles though seemed to enjoy the latter role better.

Louis Hutmire played the melancholy and mournful Jaques who spent much of his time overdosing on the melodramatic character. His delivery of the classic “All the world’s a stage” speech was wonderfully entertaining. His dry wit was spot on.

Several other noteworthy performances were offered up by Lorraine Martin as La Belle and Amy Cannard as Corin. Kevin Lukacs and Holly Furman rounded out the final pair of love birds as Silvius and Phoebe.

Under the direction of Phil Ball, “As You Like It” was more than just a walk in the park. It was a unique evening of entertainment with fun costumes and a committed cast. Shakespeare’s words came alive among the forest and its creatures. Truly all the world IS a stage.

The run (and walk) time of this production was just under 3 hours but I didn’t look at my watch once. Each location featured a scene between 15 to 30 minutes in length.

Preston Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has 98 acres. Amenities include walking trails, fishing ponds, wildlife, and numerous unique plants. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.