By Megan King

“Calamity John” was performed as a companion piece to “King John.” This sardonic musical mocks the gravity and seriousness of “King John” by adding political humor, Broadway tunes and pop culture parodies.

With a predominantly female cast, director and adapter Kara-Lynn Vaeni tells the story of the king in a modern and humorous fashion. Despite practically re-writing the entire script, Vaeni was able to keep the play true to Shakespearian form with the use of rhyming couplets. Songs like Brittney Spears’ Oops I did it Again and Ashley Simpson’s Pieces of Me were given completely different lyrics to mock celebrities and pop culture, while kung-fu and large dance numbers added to the satiric nature of the play.

Numerous standout performances appeared throughout the show. Nikki Dillon portrayed young Arthur perfectly, while Brittany Scott kept the audience laughing with her exaggerated, over-the-top interpretation of King John.

“Calamity John” will have its final performance this Saturday, March 11th in the John Cranford Adam’s Playhouse; tickets are free with a Hofstra ID.