Much Ado about Nothing
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Much Ado about Nothing

By William Shakespeare Directed by Lileana Blain-Cruz
February 20 – November 1, 2015

Love’s in the air when Don Pedro’s army, drunk with victory from the war, descends upon Leonato’s country estate in Messina. Traveling with him is Claudio, who wants to marry Leonato’s daughter Hero. Meanwhile, Claudio’s friend Benedick and Leonato’s lively niece Beatrice hide their mutual attraction behind a volley of witty insults. But their world is shattered when Claudio, influenced by a scheming malcontent, levels a shocking accusation at Hero. A linguistically challenged guard and his sidekicks uncover the plot, casting a beam of hopefulness in this tempestuous landscape of love. This production of Much Ado About Nothing is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a national program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest. Theatrical haze and strobe lights are used in this production.
Suitability Suggestions

This sophisticated and witty battle of the sexes, set in modern Italy, will also explore jealousy and rage, leaving one couple’s happiness still in doubt at the play’s end. Exuberant, passionate and complex, Much Ado about Nothing may be best suited for well-prepared middle and high school students. Prologue recommended.

Trailer: Much Ado about Nothing

Creative Team

Cast

* Member of Actors' Equity Association (AEA)
**AEA Professional Theatre Intern

OSF thanks our show sponsors

  • LEAD SPONSOR
  • US Bank
  • PRODUCTION SPONSOR
  • The Chautauqua Guild
  • PRODUCTION PARTNERS
  • Ann P. Wyckoff
  • Katie Farewell
  • The Henderson Family

Our 2015 Season