Past Productions

Macbeth - Postponed Indefinitely

Directed by Will Brooks

Due to Covid-19 our production of Macbeth has been postponed indefinitely. To read the full annoucement please check the following link.

Death, death and more death in Macbeth!  The play begins with three witches who tell the military general Macbeth that he will soon become King.  Further encouraged by his wife, Macbeth kills King Duncan, and quickly becomes the new king.  However, pushed by ghosts and more strange events, Macbeth continues to kill people in the kingdom out of paranoia. A civil war erupts to overthrow Macbeth, resulting in more death and a final deadly showdown with Macduff.  The company is pleased to announce that Kristi Friday and Joshua Beaudry will play Shakespeare’s most intense power couple!  Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz, Lighting Design by Will Brooks and Music and Composition by Lancelot Knight.

The Tempest - An Online Reading Event

Join us for an online reading of The Tempest by William Shakespeare in a modern verse translation by Kenneth Cavander directed by Yvette Nolan on Thursday, August 20th at 7:30pm CST/Saskatchewan time from the comfort of your living room.  13 cast members from Saskatchewan and across the country will read the play over Zoom broadcasting to Youtube and you can watch it all live! Many of these cast members were part of are original cast for The Tempest we had planned for our 2020 season until COVID 19 restrictions caused its indefinite postponement.  A recording of the event will be available until August 30th over our YouTube channel.

Why this version of The Tempest? Sometimes understanding Shakespeare is tricky - all those old English words and out of use expressions can get in the way of the story especially for someone new to Shakespearean language. With this in mind, Play On Shakespeare - a company out of Oregon - made it their mission to 'translate' the Shakespeare cannon. The story is the same, the characters are the same and most importantly - the majority of the LANGUAGE is the same - but the trickier bits have been updated so they land easier on the modern ear.

We hope you will join us from the safety of your home!  A HUGE thank you to Play On Shakespeare for funding this event.

To book your ticket click here.

Fireside Stories

Throughout human history, we’ve always told each other stories. It’s where theatre came from. The tales are being created collectively by the artists who will tell them. There is a tale of Ukrainian immigrants who homesteaded here, and stories about Indigenous people and recent newcomers to Canada that tell about the challenges and bounty that this prairie landscape has to offer. Musician Lancelot Knight will add to the magic with original music created the evening.

Fireside Stories (Saskatoon location) September 22 to 27, 2020 

Fireside Stories (Meacham location) September 10th to 20th.

COVID SAFETY PROCEDURES

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to welcome guests to experience Fireside Stories on our fully re-developed site.  We are committed to the health and safety of our patrons, artists and staff. 

Staging the Future: Opening Night - LIVE Sept 1 @ 7pm CST

The Comedy of Errors

**Directed by Joshua Beaudry** Set design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Miranda Hughes, Lighting Design by Will Brooks, Sound Design by Joshua Beaudry.

This season’s The Comedy of Errors is a fast paced, farcical journey to a southern Florida trailer park with two sets of twins and mistaken identity. Separated in a violent storm Antipholus and Dromio of Syracuse arrive in an Ephesus trailer park in search of their long lost twin brothers – unaware their father Aegeon has also arrived there on the same quest. However, Aegeon is busted as an illegal immigrant from the foreign land of Syracuse and he is quickly arrested and sentenced to death.  Unknown to all three of them is that the lost Antipholus and Dromio have been living in Ephesus for many years.  Everyone is packing heat but friendly as anything as folks greet the visiting brothers like old friends, and a woman claims to be Antipholus’s wife!  Imagine bible thumpin’ shotgun toting good old boys and gals, track suits, mullets and alligator boots – a friendly send up of our Southern neighbours where Shakespeare meets Nascar meets South Park!

Poster photography by timkip Imaging - Illustration by Don Sparrow.

As You Like It

**Directed by Anita Smith** Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Lighting Design by Will Brooks, Music by Ben Redant

As You Like It will take you on a fantastical journey to an enchanting place where your quirks and oddities are celebrated, and you are free to love whomever you choose!  The story features Rosalind, an intelligent young noblewoman who loses everything when she is banished by her aunt and forced to leave the only home she is ever known – but when she disguises herself as a young man of modest means she finds an unexpected freedom to express herself to the man she loves.  It is a rollicking romp of a play interwoven with dancing, live music and a quadruple wedding.  Throw in a reigning monarch that makes Marie Antoinette seem like a teddy bear, a pint sized though formidable duo, and a fool with a definite Mad Hatter vibe, and this will definitely be a show audiences get buzzing about!

Poster photography by timkip Imaging - Illustration by Don Sparrow.

pimohtewak

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is proud to bring to Saskatoon, pimohtewak, Cree for ‘the ones who walk,’ a collaborative multidisciplinary piece on and around our site this winter! This free interactive storytelling experience will be available as a free iphone app and will incorporate complimentary lighting & visual design during Wintercity Shake Up and Winterruption. This project is made possible through the City of Saskatoon WintercityYXE grant, creative partnership with It's Not a Box Theatre, and sponsorship of Production Lighting.

Just picture yourself on a January evening - all bundled up in your winter attire – arriving at the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan site. At our box office you receive a iphone with earbuds. You are instructed to put in the ear buds and press play… For the next half hour, you go on a winter walk … a journey that tells you where to go, what to look for, what to find and do… all while listening to the personal stories of a resident of our beautiful Treaty 6, the official homeland of the Métis.  Learn more here.

Please note:
- The show will run 30 minutes outdoors. Please dress for the weather!
- While the show requires mobility, all site locations are accessible by electronic wheelchairs.
- Audience members are encouraged to bring your own iPhones/headphones but these can be provided as needed.

Please note that due to the nature of the event, there is a strict NO LATECOMERS policy. Please present yourself to the Festival Box Office at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time as listed on your ticket to receive special supplies and instructions (this will take a bit of time!). As this is a free event with very limited capacity, should you arrive late, you may be denied entry and/or your ticket may be given away to the first person on the waiting list. Should this happen, we will do our best to re-book you into another performance slot (availability pending).

Hamlet

Directed by Kelli Fox. Set and Lighting Design by David Granger. Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky. Composition and Sound Design by Gilles Zolty.

The Bard’s most loved and meticulously crafted tragedy of a royal house in complete disarray – something is indeed rotten in the state of Denmark.  Ghosts spur along Hamlet as an uncle plots his murder while Ophelia is driven into madness and despair.  Poison is the weapon that spells demise at the end of this heart wrenching tale not to be missed on a warm summer night in downtown Saskatoon…

Tickets are on sale now! Click the Get Tickets link above, or Buy Tickets at the top of the page!

Get a sneak peak of our Festival Program Here.

The Merry Wives of Windsor

Directed by Greg Ochitwa. Set and Lighting Design by David Granger. Costume Design by Carla Orosz. Composition and Sound Design by Gilles Zolty.

Come play with Mistresses Ford and Page as they outwit and humiliate the disreputable and loveable Falstaff, and have some fun with Mr. Ford as well.  Feigned lechery and jealousy fuel the fires of this lightning quick comedy that also features the comical antics of a pair of would-be suitors for the hand of the lovely Anne Page.  Fast paced and wonderfully nutty, this is a summer hit waiting to happen!

Tickets are on sale now! Click the Get Tickets link above, or Buy Tickets at the top of the page!

Get a sneak peak of our Festival Program Here!

Titus A. puppet revenge

Direction and Production Design by Will Brooks. Puppet Design by Crispi Lord. Created in partnership with Puppet Builders Crispi Lord and Kristi Friday of Stumped Productions. Adapted by Will Brooks.

Puppets will tell the story of the most violent and bloody tragedy ever performed at our festival.  Dismemberment, disembowelment and cannibalism will all play out with an amazing set of carefully crafted rod puppets in a small tent tucked into a corner on our site.  Come immerse yourself in this delightfully disturbing romp for mature audiences… will you watch it all or will you have to look away? 

**Note** Due to the detailed nature of puppets etc., audience members with vision impairment may want to bring opera glasses or similar visual aid.

***Content Warning - Recommended for ages 16 and up***

***Violence, sexual violence and sexual content***

A warning to our audiences that this show may trigger deep emotional responses due to the subject matter of the script as well as the dynamic and vivid nature of puppetry.

Twelfth Night 2017

Directed Will Brooks, Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Music Composition by Robert Grier

Following a violent shipwreck twins Sebastian and Viola are separated and stranded in the city of Illyria.  Assuming her brother bo be dead fearing for her safety, Viola disguises herself as a young man named “Cesario” and joins the court of Duke Orsino, the unsuccessful suitor of Countess Olivia.  In a further attempt to woo Olivia, Orsino sends “Cesario” on his behalf to recite poetry.  However, in deep mourning for the death of her father and brother Olivia refuses to accept any suitors.  “Cesario” persists and gains entry to Olivia’s house, but instead of falling for Orsino, Olivia falls in love with “Cesario”.  The feelings are not returned since “Cesario” has already become smitten with Orsino.  Meanwhile the court of Olivia’s house is overrun with the foolery of her uncle Sir Toby Belch, Feste the Clown, and the wealthy but naïve Sir Andrew Aguecheek.  Sir Toby has convinced Sir Andrew he is a hopeful candidate for Olivia’s affections and encourages him to challenge “Cesario” to a duel.  However, the revelry of Sir Toby’s gang is often disrupted by Olivia’s strict and ambitious steward, Malvolio.  Determined to teach Malvolio a lesson for his pompous ways the group relies on Olivia’s handmaid Maria to concoct a trick.  Maria write a letter in Olivia’s hand making Malvolio believes she is in love with him.  The letter directs Malvolio to smile excessively when Olivia is near, be stern with the servants and her uncle, and dress with unfashionable yellow cross-cross-gartered leggings.  Malvolio finds the letter and is immediately hoodwinked.  Believing Malvolio insane Olivia demands him to be locked up where the tricksters continue to torment him.  While Viola struggles within a love triangle between Olivia and Orsino, her brother Sebastian is rescued by an eager gentleman, Antonio, who has mysterious business in Illyria.  Drama ensues when Olivia mistakes Sebastian for “Cesario” and demands to be married to him at once.  When Olivia next sees “Cesario” with Orsino she claims him as her husband.  Confusion ensues until Sebastian appears and all is explained.

Richard III 2017

Directed by Skye Brandon, Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Sound Design by Clinton Akerman

After a long civil war between the royal families of York and Lancaster, two branches of the larger Plantagenet family tree, England enjoys a period of peace under King Edward IV and the victorious Yorks.  But Edward’s youngest brother, Richard, has his sights set on the crown, and begins to secretly aspire for the throne.  He begins by wooing Lady Anne to marry him – even though she knows that he killed her first husband during the war.  He has his other brother, Clarence, executed, and shifts the burden of guilt onto his sick older brother King Edward, in order to accelerate Edward’s illness and death.  After King Edward dies, Richard is appointed Lord Protector of England – the figure in charge until the elder of Edward’s two sons reaches maturity.  He then has the boys’ uncle on their mother’s side- the brother of Edward’s wife, Queen Elizabeth-arrested and executed.  Next, Richard seizes and puts to death Lord Hastings, the lord chamberlain of England.  With Elizabeth and the princes now unprotected, Richard has his political allies, particularly his cousin, the Duke of Buckingham, campaign to have Richard crowned king.  Richard then, in his bloodiest move yet, has the princes assassinated while they are in residence at the Tower.  Shortly after Richard’s reign begins, rumors circulate about a challenger to the throne gathering forces in France.  The challenger is the Earl of Richmond, a descendant of a secondary arm of the Lancaster family.  Richard, in the meantime, tries to consolidate his power.  He has his wife, Queen Anne, murdered, so that he can marry young Elizabeth, the daughter of the former Queen Elizabeth and the dead King Edward.  Though young Elizabeth is his niece, the alliance would secure Richard’s claim to the throne, while also preventing a marriage between young Elizabeth and Richmond.  Richmond finally arrives in England, and during the night before the Battle of Bosworth, Richard has a terrible dream in which he is visited by the ghosts of those he has had killed.  The following morning, Richard and Richmond meet in battle to determine England’s future.

J. Caesar 2016

Adapted by Tracey Power with James MacDonald and directed by Anita Smith, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Sound Design by tBone, Song Composition by Connor Brousseau

The year is 2416.  In the last 400 years natural disasters have caused complete societal collapse… well almost. Some have survived, banded together and have become a force so strong that nothing, not even nature, could crush them. They are the women of Rome, a city-state committed to protecting their people and their most valuable resource, water.  The all-female city-state is made up of fearless, vengeful warriors, but one has risen above the rest, Caesar.  When Brutus and her allies take a stand against Caesar to save their new world from tyranny, it rips the unified nation apart causing them to once again go to war, but this time with each other.  Join the seven women of our 2016 company in this epic play with an edge, an edge like you’ve never seen before.
 

The Roving Show 2016

Directed and Created by Joshua Beaudry, Wardrobe by Miranda Hughes

Venture out of the tent and join us on the riverbank just outside the festival site for the zany world of The Roving Show.  Come experience one of Shakespeare’s most magical and mystical plays like you never have before.  You and the four men of our 2016 company will find yourselves banished to the banks of the South Saskatchewan, in an enchanted place some call Meewasin.  While a man and his daughter attempt to control their own destiny, a mysterious jester, a drunken butler and a hairy man-beast have their own plans to rule the riverbank.  Our actors will add some props, puppets, costumes plus maybe a little help from you to complete their tale of magic, treachery, comedy and of course romance by the river!

Featuring the four men in our 2016 company in this ONE HOUR LONG Performance!

The Roving Show is an outdoor, open-air performance that will start onsite and travel down the riverbank. As such, we encourage patrons to dress for the weather and bring a lawn chair if you wish.  It is fun to move around with the actors to change your view during each scene so you may want to stand as well.  Your choice!

In the event that the weather is too extreme for our cast to perform, ticket holders will be notified by Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, on the "news" section of the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan website, and by phone. We will endeavour to make this decision an hour before show time to allow enough time for patrons to be informed before choosing to leave their home. 

Patrons with tickets for cancelled shows will be given vouchers to another performance of The Roving Show. Patrons wishing for a refund will be accommodated as best as possible through our box office, and Ticketmaster. 

A Midsummer Night's Dream 2016

Directed by Will Brooks, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Composition and Sound Design by Gilles Zolty

Is this a dream?  In a colourful show full of pomp and revelry, the teenage lovers, the fairies, and the wonderfully nutty craftsmen take the audience on a hilarious journey of love and magic.  When four young lovers find themselves lost in the woods they become entertainment for a mischievous fairy named Puck.  When Puck transforms the tradesman Bottom into an Ass, the fun really begins!  Expect the unexpected in this playful production full of sharp wit and beautiful costumes.  It’s the best group wedding of the summer, no gifts and no crazy relatives required – unless you really want to bring them along!
 

Much Ado About Nothing 2015

Directed by Pamela Haig Bartley, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Composition and Sound Design Gilles Zolty

Benedick returns from the Second World War - after a year away - to party with “the lads” in a pretty but sleepy resort town, and so resumes the “merry war” between Beatrice and himself.  They had a relationship, of sorts, before Benedick left, and Beatrice has been nursing a wounded heart by mocking Benedick ever since.  Benedick is a womanizer and playboy, who openly denounces the prospect of settling down; however his friends believe the two were meant for one another and hatch a plan to make them realize it.

Othello 2015

Directed by Will Brooks, Production Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Jeff Chief, Composition and Sound Design by Gilles Zolty

Othello is a highly esteemed Cree business executive. Iago is Othello's ambitious friend.  Othello’s achievements in the boardroom have allowed him to quickly climb the ranks and gain reputation as a fierce leader; however the colour of his skin is a source of contention among certain peers. When Othello offers Michael Cassio a high-level promotion, Iago becomes deadly jealous and begins an evil and malicious campaign against the hero.  Tempers flare when Othello falls in love and elopes with the white daughter of his colleague, setting the stage for a tragic tale of racism, love, jealousy, betrayal, revenge, and repentance.

Romeo & Juliet 2014

Directed by Will Brooks, Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Montagues and Caplets: two powerful families whose quarrels continually break the peace in Verona.  Prince Escalus has had enough and decrees that if any member of either family fights in public again, they will be killed.  Romeo, a Montague, is plagued by his unrequited love to Rosaline which he divulges to his cousin Benvolio, who recommends that Romeo find someone else to cast his eyes on.  Meanwhile, Capulet discusses the marriage of his daughter, Juliet, to a young suitor named Paris, cousin to the Prince.  He encourages Paris to pursue Juliet at a masquerade party he is holding that night.  Romeo and Benvolio catch wind of the party and the guest list (including Rosaline), and attend in disguise with Mercutio, a mutual friend to both Montagues and Capulets.

At the party, Juliet’s cousin Tybalt spots Romeo as a Montague and is ready to kill him on the spot, but is dissuaded by Capulet, allowing Romeo and Juliet to meet and fall madly in love.  Unfortunately, both find out they come from opposing households.  Later, Juliet professes her love for Romeo and disdain for their situation from atop her balcony outside.  Romeo appears and guarantees his love in return, in spite of their families’ turmoil.

Romeo and Juliet make plans to elope with the help of Juliet’s nurse and the Friar Laurence, but no sooner are they married than Tybalt challenges Romeo to a duel, still infuriated from his attendance at the Capulet’s ball.  Romeo, now kinsmen to Capulet, refuses to fight him.  Mercutio steps in his place, but is slain.  In an enraged state, Romeo, in turn, slays Tybalt.  Romeo must escape the city hastily to avoid his own death sentence, beginning a downward spiral of tragedy for both families.

The Taming of the Shrew 2014

Directed by Johnna Wright, Set Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

The young student Lucentio, son of the rich Pisan Vincentio, has arrived in Padua to continue his philosophical studies.  Upon arrival, Lucentio falls madly in love with Bianca, daughter of the well-off Baptista; however two obstacles stand in his way.  Bianca is already being wooed by two other suitors she dislikes (Gremio and Hortensio), and her mother has declared that no one will be allowed to marry her until her older and more abrasive sister Katherine is married.  Lucentio and his servant Tranio devise a plan to switch identities, so that Lucentio can appear in disguise as a Latin teacher to woo Bianca behind her mother’s back.  Meanwhile, Hortensio plots a similar plan to disguise himself as a music teacher.  Petruchio of Verona arrives to visit Hortensio and mentions that he is in search of a rich woman to marry.  Hortensio tells Petruchio about the shrewish but wealthy Katherine, seeing an opportunity to remove her as an obstacle.  Upon meeting Katherine for the first time, Petruchio is immediately engaged in a battle of wits.  He strikes a deal with Baptista to marry Katherine the upcoming Sunday. In the mean time, Gremio and Tranio (on behalf of Lucentio) continue to vie for the hand of Bianca, with Tranio presenting a much bigger dowry.  Baptista wants assurance of this dowry, so Tranio plots to hire someone to play the part of Vincentio (Lucentio’s wealthy father).

On the wedding day of Petruchio and Katherine, Petruchio arrives late, puts on quite a scene, and is quick to whisk Katherine away to Verona to begin transforming her into a model housewife – but it may not as easy as he thinks.

The Comedy Of Errors 2013

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Aegeon, a merchant of Syracuse, is arrested and faces execution due to a law forbidding Syacusians from entering Ephesus.  Aegeon pleads with Duke Solinus and tells of his search for his wife and his twin sons; one that, as a baby was separated from his, along with his wife in a shipwreck, and the other who as a grown man left to search for his long lost twin brother.  The Duke gives him one day to raise the money that can grant his freedom.  Meanwhile, Antipholus of Syracuse (one of Aegeon’s sons), and his servant Dromio have arrived in Ephesus, in search of his brother.  Antipholus of S. Sends Dromio to deposit some money at The Centaur, an inn, but Dromio of S. Has no sooner left, than Dromio of Ephesus arrives, denying any knowledge of the money.  Dromio proceeds to beckon Antipholus home to dinner where Adriana, his angry wife, waits for him.  In no mood for mockery, Antipholus beats Dromio and sends him back to Adriana to tell her he knows of no wife.  Adriana, refusing to relent, drags Antipnolus home for supper with Dromio of S. (who Antipholus of S. Has since reunited with) to stand guard at the door.  A short while later Antipholus of E. returns to be refused entry to his own house.  Inside, Antipholus of S. Becomes infatuated with Adriana’s sister, Luciana, who is appalled at the behaviour of the man she thinks is her brother-in-law.  When a gold chain ordered by Antipholus of E. for his wife is given to Antipholus of S., much confusion ensues.

Macbeth 2013

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz

Macbeth and Banquo, the King of Scotland’s generals, have successfully stopped a rebellion that was aided by the Thane of Cawdor.  King Duncan hears of this feat and sends Ross and Angus to praise his generals and name Macbeth the new Thane of Cawdor. Meanwhile, Macbeth and Banquo meet three witches who prophesize that Macbeth will be Thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland, and that Banquo and Banquo will father a line of kings.  Macbeth and Banquo laugh at the prophecies until Ross and Angus arrive and inform Macbeth of his newly bestowed title.  Macbeth, shaken by the uncanny prediction, sends a message ahead to his wife, telling of the witches’ prophecies.  Lady Macbeth suffers none of her husband’s uncertainty, and urges him to plan Duncan’s murder.  When Macbeth hesitates to do the task, she drives him on.  Lady Macbeth will get the King’s guards drunk so that they will fall into a deep sleep, and Macbeth will have easy access to the sleeping king.  Lady Macbeth then smears the guards with blood to incriminate them.  In the morning, the murder is discovered and the King’s sons flee, fearing their lives are also at risk.  In their absence, Macbeth is drowned King of Scotland.  Paranoia soon begins to consume Macbeth, he hears his action will only benefit Banquo’s line and conspires to kill him and his son Fleance.  At Macbeth’s coronation feast, Banquo’s ghost appears.  Member of the court witness his horror at the ghost, although they themselves are unaware of its presence.  The next morning Macbeth will visit the witches again to learn what the future will bring.

Hamlet 2012

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz

Hamlet has come home for his father’s funeral only to discover that his widowed mother is married to her husband’s brother.  Two members of the night watch have seen something unusual and ask their friend Horatio to watch and explain. They see the ghost of the former king who has returned from the grave to ask his son Hamlet to seek revenge.  The ghost reveals that Claudius has poisoned him then married the Queen and usurped the throne.  Hamlet will feign madness to uncover the truth and determine whether the ghost is his father or a demon from hell.  Meanwhile Ophelia, Hamlet’s girlfriend, is warned by Laertes, her brother, and commanded by Polonius, her father, not to see Hamlet: he is a prince and out of her sphere.  This breaks her heart and Hamlet’s. Polonius suggests that Hamlet’s madness is caused by Ophelia’s rejection of his love and spies on them to verify it.  The King and Queen summon Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to “lead Hamlet on to pleasures” and determine what is wrong with him.  A group of players arrive at the castle and Hamlet asks them to perform a special play.  After the uproar caused by the play Hamlet visits his mother in her private room and mistakenly stabs Polonius who is there to spy.  Polonius’ death gives Claudius all the excuse he needs to send Hamlet away.

As You Like It 2012

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Orlando (our hero) is upset that his brother Oliver is keeping him like a servant and not granting him the riches from their father’s estate.  Orlando plans to wrestle Duke Frederick’s champion and claim the prize money, which will give him the capital he needs to leave home.  Meanwhile, Rosalind (our heroine) is melancholy about her father (Duke Senior) banished to the Forest of Arden by the villainous Duke Frederick.  Orlando and Rosalind meet at the wrestling match and fall inlove, but victorious Orlando is denied the prize money and must flee home to escape his brother’s wrath.  Duke Frederick, growing suspicious of Rosalind, banishes her as well.  She and her cousin Celia flee to the Forest of Arden indisguise (Rosalind as a boy and Celia as a shepherdess) t protect themselves from ne’er do wells.  In the forest, Orlando and Rosalind meet but she has to maintain her disguise.  She offers to cure Orlando of his love sickness by coaching him in the ways of love. Many colourful characters live in the forest including Sylvius the young shepherd in love with Phebe.  Phebe, however, falls in love with Rosalind in disguise thinking that she is a handsome young man. Duke Senior resides in theforest with a band of merry followers as does the voluptuous Audrey, a milkmaid who attracts the affections of Touchstone the court jester.

The Winter's Tale 2011

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Our story begins in the court of Leontes, King of Uppsala.  Leontes’ oldest and best friend, Polixenes, King of North Umbria, is bidding farewell and preparing to sail home.  Polixenes has been away from home for nine months but his hosts do not want to see him leave.  Leontes is unable to convince him to say, but Hermione, Queen of Uppsala, charms Polixene and he decides to stay.  Unfortunately, Leontes misinterprets this and becomes jealous. Leontes is convinced that Hermione has been unfaithful with Polixenes.  Leontes questions his bodyguard Camillo, but despite Camillo’s belief in the Queen’s honesty; Leontes orders him to assassinate Polixenes.  Unable to proceed with his orders, Camillo confesses to Polixenes and helps him flee the country.  Leontes interprets their escape as evidence of guilt; he arrests Hermione to prevent her escape.  Leontes sends to the oracle for advice, the gods will know if she is honest.  At Hermione’s trial, the oracle confirms her innocence, but Leontes overrules.  His refusal to believe in the oracle triggers a chain of events that destroys his family.

Love's Labour's Lost 2011

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz

The “King” of Navarre and three of his fellow students want to guarantee their future success so they sign a pact agreeing t long hours of study, weekly fasting and foreswearing the company of women.  For their recreation, the King and his fellows will amuse themselves with the comic antics of Don Armado (a rather odd exchange student) and his unknowing rival from the School of Vocational Agriculture: Costard.  The ink is barely dry on the decree when the beautiful “Princess” and three of her best friends arrive on the scene to conclude some old business on behalf of the Princess’s father.

The Merchant of Venice 2010

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Lighting Design by Stephen Wade

Bassanio, a Venetian nobleman who is having financial difficulties (from overspending) asks his friend Antonio, The Merchant of Venice, to loan him money to help him win the hand of Portia, a rich heiress of Belmont.  Antonio agrees to help Bassanio; however, his fortune is tied up at sea so he must find another means to obtain the necessary funds.  With Antonio’s consent, Bassanio inquires about a loan from a rich Jew named Shylock.  Shylock, an adversary of Antonio, agrees to lend Bassanio 3000 ducats under the condition that if Antonio does not repay the loan within three months time, rather than collect interest (which is not Christian) he will cut a pound of flesh from Antonio’s body.  Despite Bassanio’s warnings, Antonio accepts the deal with complete confidence as he expects his ships to return with much profit in two months.  While this is occurring, Shylock’s servant, Launcelot, decides to quit that position to work for Bassanio.  Shylock’s daughter, Jessica chooses to elope with a young Christian named Lorenzo, a friend of Bassanio and Antonio’s.  To be with her love, Jessica must run away from home in the middle of the night.  Meanwhile, in Belmont, Portia is left with her late father’s will that states whoever wants to marry her must first solve the riddle he has left.  Her father has left a set of three caskets: one gold, one silver, and one lead, each bearing an inscription.  Each bachelor must select one casket; whoever chooses the correct casket will win Portia’s hand.  Several suitors test their luck at the lottery, however, it remains unsolved until Bassanio arrives in Belmont, determined to become Portia’s husband.  Gratiano accompanies Bassanio to Belmont and is very attracted to Portia’s confidante, Nerissa, and wishes to marry her.  Back in Venice, things take a turn for the worst for Antonio and a clever plan is hatched to rescue him.

The Merry Wives of Windsor 2010

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Lighting Design by Stephen Wade

Justice Shallow and Sir Hugh Evans encourage Abraham Slender to marry Master Page’s young daughter, Anne Page, who is the prettiest and wealthiest girl in town.  The men dine at the Page’s house; with Master Page’s consent, Slender attempts to woo young Anne.  Meanwhile, at the Garter Inn, Sir John Falstaff, a penniless knave, discloses his plan to try to seduce both Mistress Ford and Mistress Page and embezzle their fortunes. Falstaff wants his cronies, Pistol and Nym, to deliver letters to Mistress Page and Mistress Ford but they refuse, as it is not honorable work.  At the same time, Sir Hugh Evans sends Slender’s servant, Simple, to convince Anne’s confidante, Mistress Quickly, to put in a good word about Slender.   Mistress Quickly agrees, which angers Doctor Caius; he is Mistress Page’s choice for her daughter.  Caius becomes enraged with Evans for encouraging Slender to pursue Anne and challenges him to a duel.  Mistress Quickly also tells Master Fenton, a very handsome young man in love with Anne, that Anne loves him too.  Meanwhile, Mistress Page receives the letter from Falstaff and is appalled by his attempt to woo her.  Mistress Ford confides in Mistress Page that she has received a letter from Falstaff. The two women realize that Falstaff has given them both the same letter.  Pistol and Nym arrive at the Page’s and tell Master Ford and Master Page of Falstaff’s intentions.  Master Page believes that his wife would not betray him and that he has nothing to worry about.  Master Ford on the other hand, becomes concerned that Falstaff will successfully win over his wife.  To test his wife’s honesty, he disguises himself as Master Brook and encourages Falstaff to woo Mistress Ford.  Mistress Ford and Mistress Page develop a scheme of their own to foil Falstaff’s plans.

Anthony and Cleopatra 2009

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Mark Antony, Octavius Caesar and M. Aemilius Lepidus rule the Roman Empire as Triumvirs.  However, Antony’s reputation is slipping because he is spending too much time in Egypt with his lover Cleopatra.  Antony has been ignoring his military responsibilities and his wife Fulvia.  Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, despite her love for Antony is jealous and suspicious whenever Antony receives news from Rome or must travel there.  War rages in Italy; Antony’s brother Lucius and Fulvia are attacking the state, which forces Antony to leave Egypt to aide Caesar.  Caesar is outraged because Antony has not been in Italy to help defend the country.  To mend their political alliance, Antony agrees to marry Caesar’s sister Octavia.  United again, the Triumvirs make ready to battle Pompey who is preparing to attack the country.  Pompey negotiates a truce to avoid certain loss against the newly united front.  Octavia endeavors to resolve the long-standing friction between Antony and Caesar but is unsuccessful.  Cleopatra is furious upon hearing that Antony has married.  His love for Cleopatra is stronger however, and he cannot honor his marriage to Octavia.  He returns to Egypt to be with Cleopatra, which rekindles strife with Caesar and war ensues.  Cleopatra lends ships to Antony for the sea battle with Caesar.  At a crucial moment, Cleopatra retreats; Antony follows to protect her; this proves to be the first of many tactical errors for the once highly-regarded Antony.

A Midsummer Night's Dream 2009

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz

Duke Theseus and Hippolyta are to be married in four days.  Hermia’s father Egeus is furious because she is refusing to marry Demetrius, even though Egeus has betrothed her to him.  Hermia loves Lysander.  The Duke councils her to decide by his wedding day if she will marry Demetrius; if she goes against her father’s wishes she will face the consequences:  death or life as a nun.  Hermia and Lysander secretly plan to meet that night in the forest to elope.  Hermia’s friend Helena is sad and dejected because Demetrius is not in love with her.  When Helena learns of Hermia and Lysander’s plan, she decides to tell Demetrius, believing that sharing the information will win his love and respect.  In scene two, we meet a group of low ranking soldiers (Shakespeare refers to them as “the Mechanicals”) who are putting on a play in honour of the Duke’s wedding.  Their play is the classic love tragedy of Pyramus and Thisby.  Nick Bottom is to play the hero Pyramus (but really he wants to play all the parts.)  The group will rehearse in the forest so that their production is a surprise for Theseus and Hippolyta.  In the forest, we discover that Oberon, King of the Fairies, is quarreling with Titania, Queen of the Fairies.  She has a small human boy that was born to a close friend who died in childbirth.  Theseus wants this “changeling boy” to be his page, but Titania will not give him to Oberon.  Demetrius enters with Helena pursuing him; Oberon sees them, and instructs Puck to charm Demetrius with a magic flower. Under the charm, Demetrius will fall in love with whom he sees first upon waking; Oberon thinks he will see Helena first. Unfortunately, Puck charms Lysander by mistake.  Oberon will use the same charm on Titania to torment her for not giving him the changeling boy.  Oberon hopes that she will wake when some vile thing in near. The Mechanicals meet for rehearsal, which is, coincidentally, beside Titania’s bower. Puck comes across the Mechanicals and decides to play a prank; the results involve Titania.

Henry IV 2008

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

King Henry IV is planning to go to the Crusades now that civil war has ended in England, but he learns that battles are still erupting and he must stay.  Gallant young Henry Hotspur has taken many Scottish prisoners , but he will not share the ransom with the King.  The King wishes that his son Hal, the Prince of Wales, would show the courage of Hotspur, rather than being a disgrace and associating with the likes of Sir John Falstaff who enjoys life to the fullest but finances his indulgences with thievery and deception.  Ned Poins, a friend of Hal’s knows of a group of travelers on the road that will be easy to rob; Falstaff wants in on the plan and wants the Prince to join as well.  The Prince is reluctant but Poins says he will convince him.  In private, Poins tells Hal that the real plan is to watch Falstaff and his crew do the robbery, then the two of them will rob Falstaff; the real fun, says Poins, will be when Falstaff tells stories of how he fought valiantly to save the booty, but was eventually overpowered by many, many men.  Hotspur is called before the King to share the ransom for his prisoners but refuses and angers the King.  Hotspur wants the King to pay the ransom on his brother-in law Edmund Mortimer who Glendower is holding prisoner in Wales.  Hotspur’s uncle, the Earl of Worcester explains that King Richard II (who Henry IV overthrew) had proclaimed Mortimer the next in line to the throne, and that is why the King does not wnt him in England.  Worcester believes that now the King will see them as enemies, but he has a plan for their protection by helping Mortimer to the throne.  Peto, an associate of Falstaff is at an inn to set up the robbery planned by Poins and Falstaff that goes just as Poins predicted.  Hotspur must not tell his wife Kate (who is also Mortimer’s sister) any details of his plans against the King to protect her, unfortunately she misinterprets his moodiness and thinks it is because of something she has done wrong.  At the Pub, Falstaff’s bravado and lies are exactly as Poins predicted; Falstaff masterly covers his stories and then encourages the Price to improvise a play about how his father the King will chastise him when he returns to court the next day.  The second act begins with the rebels; Hotspur, Worcester, Glendower, and Mortimer, arguing about how they will divide England after the King is defeated.

The Tempest 2008

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Thunderclaps and raging seas capsize the King’s ship on the way home from his daughter’s wedding, leaving his men stranded on the shores of a desert island.  The storm is not the wrath of Mother Nature but conjured by Prospero.  Miranda, Prospero’s daughter, is concerned for the safety of the people on the ship, but he assures her that no one is injured and then tells her the story of how they came to the island twelve years earlier after his brother Antonio seized the Dukedom of Milan and set them adrift at sea.  Ariel, Prospero’s faithful spirit, created the storm to crash the ship and bring Antonio and the King of Naples safely to the island as part of Prospero’s plan.  Ariel hopes to soon be free from his service to Prospero, who rescued him from a magic curse upon his arrival to the island.  Caliban also serves Prospero but is a wretched man-beast, the son of the witch who cursed Ariel.  Caliban believes the island is his and does not want to gather wood or serve Prospero.  Ariel conjures Ferdinand, the Prince of Naples, toward Miranda: they fall in love at first sight.  Prospero is happy at the development but actsangry to slow their progress.  The King is depressed, believing his son drown in the storm, and his brother Sebastian makes him feel worse while mocking Gonzalo who is trying his best to cheer the King. Ariel arrives to charm the group to sleep as instructed by Prospero; Antonio and Sebastian remain awake and plot against the King. Antonio wants Sebastian to become the King and grant more power to him as the Duke of Milan.  Ariel returns to wake the sleepers and prevent their sudden murder (and Prospero’s plans from going awry.)  In the last scene of the first act, Caliban is fearful of Prospero’s spirits and thinks, Trinculo, the King’s jester, is one sent to punish him.  Trinculo is afraid of the approaching storm and hides with Caliban under his cloak.  Stephano, the King’s drunken butler, discovers them and thinks they are strange four legged monster that will make him rich and offers drinks to both of the monster’s mouths.  All of them celebrate when they discover the truth with Caliban vowing to leave Prospero and to serve kind Stephano.

Julius Caesar 2007

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Lighting Design by Stephen Wade

The play opens with celebration in the streets over Caesar’s defeat of Pompey in civil war.  While most of the commoners are joyous, others are nervous about Caesar’s popularity and his rise to power.  If the Senate appoints Caesar Emperor, it will undermine the Republic and give him the supreme authority of a dictator. Cassius is convinced that Caesar will misuse power, so during the Feast of Lupercal celebration he tries to find others that will support his assassination.  Storms and strange occurrences that rage through the night are bad omens that strike fear and unsettle the superstitious Romans; the Gods are angry at the world.  It is March 14, the evening before the Ides of March and Cassius will make another attempt to win Brutus to his conspiracy.  The situation with Caesar has kept Brutus awake at night; when the conspirators arrive, Brutus joins them, and plans are set to ensure Caesar will be at the Senate the next day.  Caesar’s wife Calpurnia has not slept either, plagued with nightmares of Caesar bleeding from a hundred spouts, she convinces him to stay at home; yet the crafty Decius convinces him the dream is misinterpreted and Caesar must go to the Senate House or risk losing the crown which is to be offered him that day.  Portia, Brutus’ wife is anxious about the day’s business and wants her servant Lucius to run to the Senate House but cannot explain why.  Cassius is also anxious and fears Lepidus is aware of the plan, but Brutus calms him.  Decius lures Mark Antony away from Caesar and the stage is set for the swift and brutal assassination.  Afterward Brutus will speak to the people in the Forum, to give reasons why Caesar had to die; he knows the people will understand.  Antony arrives to pay respect to the body and asks if he may speak to the citizens at the funeral; despite Cassius’ warning, Brutus grants Antony permission.  When the conspirators leave Antony alone with Caesar, he apologizes for appearing to befriend the assassins and vows to avenge Caesars death.

Twelfth Night 2007

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set Design by Carla Orosz, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky, Lighting Design by Stephen Wade

A terrible shipwreck separates twins, Viola and Sebastian, and each believes the other has met a watery death.  Viola is washed ashore with her ship’s Captain in Illyria, a country strange to her.  For her safety, she decides to disguise herself as a boy and seek employment with Duke Orsino.  Calling herself Casario, she quickly becomes a favourite of the Duke, who completely believes she is a young man.  Orsino is melancholy because his overtures of love to Olivia are unsuccessful (she has forsworn love for seven years while she mourns for her recently deceased father and brother) so he appoints Cesario to woo her on his behalf.  Olivia’s Uncle, Sir Toby Belch, however, has different plans for his niece and hopes to arrange a marriage between her and his rich friend Sir Andrew Aguecheek.  Olivia’s maid, Maria, suggests that Toby should come in earlier at night and reduce his drinking if he is to remain in Olivia’s good books and continue living in her mansion. Feste, Olivia’s Clown, returns from an unexcused absence, and quickly re-establishes his place with Olivia using his wit, despite the protests of Malvolio, her prudish and proper head servant.  Viola arrives disguised as Cesario, and finds that the initial resistance soon melts away.  Olivia concocts a story of Cesario leaving a ring and instructs Malvolio to give chase and return it.  When he tries, Viola realizes that her disguise has worked too well and that Olivia has fallen in love with her just as she has fallen in love with Duke Orsino.  Meanwhile, Antonio has rescued Sebastian who is depressed because he believes his twin sister Viola has drowned.  Sebastian decides to seek his fortune in the Duke Orsino’s court, and even though Antonio has enemies there, he will follow to ensure Sebastian’s safety.  A late night party leads to trouble for Sir Toby and Malvolio chastises him.  Sir Toby and Maria plot for revenge.

TheTaming of the Shrew 2006

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Young and handsome Lucentio arrives in Padua accompanied by his trusty servant Tranio.  When Lucentio sees Bianca, the younger sister of Kate (our Shrew), her beauty distracts him from his desire to study philosophy.  Bianca’s father Baptista tells Gremio the old neighbour and flamboyant Hortensio, Bianca’s suitors, that she cannot be married before Katharina; until then only teachers will be allowed in her company.  Katharina’s headstrong behavior leaves her with no suitors (but with the choices available does she really want one?)  Rivals Gremio and Hortensio form a pact to find a wife for Katharina.  Lucentio decides he will pose as a teacher to meet Bianca and trades his clothes with Tranio to trick Baptista and gain access.  Petruchio arrives in town with his servants Grumio and (later) Biondello to visit Hortensio and to find a wife; as long as the woman is wealthy Pertuchio will be happy.  Petruchio hears about “Kate the Cursed” and takes up the challenge of wooing and wedding her.  All of the suitors arrive at Baptista’s to vie for position; Petruchio presents Licio (Hortensio in disguise) as a music teacher and Gremio presents Cambio (Lucentio in disguise) as a teacher of languages; Tranio, posing as Lucentio presents books and a musical instrument.  Petruchio negotiates a marriage deal with Baptista before he even meets Katharina.  Kate and Petruchio’s first meeting is quite sporting but she is not impressed with the pre-arranged contact.  Gremio and Tranio make their dowry bids for Bianca; Baptista sides with Tranio, as long as his father will make assurance of the outrageous sums offered.  We see both of Bianca’s teachers feign instruction while attempting to court her.  Petruchio arrives late on Kate’s wedding day, making her distraught.  He is dressed ridiculously but insists on going to the altar that way, much to everyone’s dismay.  Gremio describes the wedding, telling of Petruchio’s outrageous behavior.  Petruchio insists on taking Kate home before the wedding feast, she attempts to stay, but he sweeps her away much to the amazement of all.

The Two Gentlemen of Verona 2006

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Carla Orosz

The play opens with Valentine teasing Proteus for being in love, Valentine is about to leave Verona for Milan to serve in the General’s Army.  Speed, Valentine’s servant, enters looking for Valentine but starts joking with Proteus.  Speed convinces Proteus to pay him for delivering love letters to Julia.  Julia asks her maid Lucetta for her opinion of several men who have been wooing her; the ladies clearly are attracted to Proteus, however Julia’s modesty prevents her from showing any obvious signs of affection.  She scolds Lucetta for having a love letter from Proteus thinking it could jeopardize her reputation; Julia tears the letter up in haste before reading it, which she quickly regrets.  Antonio, Proteus’s father, asks his driver Panthino for advice about his son.  Panthino tactfully suggests that Proteus might be happiest if he is allowed to discover the world, perhaps joining Valentine in the General’s ranks.  When Proteus enters reading a love letter from Julia he tries to hide it from his father saying it is from Valentine; this strengthens Antonio’s resolve to send his son out into the world.  Proteus is disheartened because he knows his dishonesty will separate him from Julia.  Valentine, now in Milan, has fallen deeply in love with the General’s daughter Silvia, and Speed his man taunts him for it.  Silvia has asked Valentine to write a love letter for her, which he gives to her and she delivers it back to him.  Unfortunately Valentine is a bit too jealous (or dumbstruck) to realize she intends the letter for him.  In Verona, Proteus and Julia say good-bye to each other and exchange rings as bonds of their affection.  Launce, Proteus’s servant, will have to leave home to attend on Proteus and is heartbroken because his dog Crab is the only one in his family who hasn’t shed a tear for him.  In Milan, Valentine and Thurio compete for Silvia’s love; she prefers Valentine but her father, the General, favours Thurio, a foreign ambassador.  The General announces that Proteus has arrived in Milan.  Valentine confides in Proteus that he intends on stealing away with Silvia that night, rescuing her from her balcony using a rope ladder.  Valentine is unaware that Proteus is smitten by Silvia and will use that intelligence to plot against the elopement, win the General’s favour, and woo Silvia for himself.

Comedy of Errors 2005

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

West versus East gangs are sworn enemies!

Carlo (Father of the Antonio twins) is captured on the East side while searching for his sons; one that, as a baby, was separated from him and the other who left to find his long lost twin brother.  Carlo will be executed for being caught in the wrong side of the river unless he can raise the money for his penalty by sundown.  Antonio of the West arrives and is warned about the law, but decides to have his servant Dromio of the West check him into the Sportsman Hotel anyway; he hopes to find his long lost brother.  Dromio has no sooner left the safeguard Antonio's money at the Sportsman, when Dromio of the East arrives telling Antonio that he is wanted at home for dinner and that his wife is angry with him.  Antonio wants to know what has happened to his money, which Dromio of the East knows nothing about.  Antonio has heard this side of town is full of swindlers and con artists so he must be wary.  Antonio of the East's wife Adriana is upset that Antonio has not come home for dinner.  Her sister Luciana tries to console her but when Dromio comes home and says that Antonio swears he has no wife, Andriana is convinced that he is having an affair.  Antonio of the West, having made sure his money is safe, chastises his Dromio for not telling the truth about the money and making up sotries about wives, homes and dinners.  Adriana sees Antonio of the West and thinks he is her husband and drags him home for dinner much to his amazement.  Dromio is told to guard the gate and to not let anyone enter.  When Antonio of the East arrives home for dinner with Angelo the goldsmith and finds himself locked out he gets angry and decides to visit a lady friend and give her the gold chain he has promised his wife.

Romeo and Juliet 2005

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

The Montagues and Capulets are sworn enemies; attacks and insults are common and brawls erupt regularly even though the Prince forbids them.

The play opens with Peter, a servant in the House of Capulet, insulting Romeo's friend Mercutio.  When Romeo's cousin Benvolio tries to stop the fight, Tybalt, another Capulet, enters and challenges him.  The Prince arrives and stops the fight before taking Father Capulet away to discuss his penalty for the brawl; Montague is to come later to learn his penalty.  Romeo missed the brawl because he has been out all night, pining for his unrequited love:  Rosaline.  Benvolio suggests Romeo should consider other girls.  When they find out that Rosaline will be at a masked party at the Capulet's they decide to go and compare her against other young women.  Juliet's father tells Paris that he should attend the party and that he may woo Juliet.  Romeo sees Juliet at the party and is immediately smitten by her; it is love at first sight for Juliet as well.  Tybalt recognizes Romeo and wants to kill him but is stopped by Capulet.  Romeo ditches his friends on the way home and goes back to the Capulet's where he sees Juliet on her balcony.  They promise their love to each other and plan to marry the next day.

Much Ado About Nothing 2004

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Don Pedro, the Prince,  and his officers return from a battle with illegal American whiskey traders.  His bastard brother, Don John, has been captured by young Claudio and placed in his custody.  They are all welcomed into the home of Leonato, the Lieutenant Governor of the Northwest Territories.  Benedick, a confirmed bachelor, and Beatrice, Leonato’s niece, match wits as usual.  Claudio admits that he is enamored of Leonato’s daughter Hero, and Don Pedro agrees to woo her on Calaudio’s behalf and then to ask Leonato’s permission for the pair to wed.  Don John hears of the marriage plans from his cohort Borrachio and decides to try to break up the wedding to gain revenge on Claudio.  At a party in honour of the Mounties, Don John convinces Claudio that the Prince intends on marrying Hero himself, duping Claudio and breaking his heart.  However, when Don Pedro and Leonato announce that Hero is to marry Claudio the situation is resolved. Don Pedro and Leonato also agree that Benedick and Beatrice make an excellent couple, even though they both refuse to admit their mutual attraction; they devise a scheme to trick Beatrice and Benedick into admitting their love for each other.  When Benedick is alone in the gardens, the other men talk (pretending they don’t know he’s there) of how Beatrice loves him, but she is afraid he will scorn her love.  Hero and her gentlewomen, Margaret and Ursula, lead Beatrice into t a similar trap.  Meanwhile, his first plan foiled, Don John and Borrachio plan a new scheme to cross Claudio’s wedding plans.  On the night before the wedding, Borrachio will get his innocent girlfriend Margaret to pose as Hero in her bedroom window while he woos her.  Don John will bring Claudio and the Prince to observe “Hero”, thereby convincing them of her unfaithfulness.  Constable Dogberry and the bumbling citizen’s watch group upend the whole scheme and soon we find that all the uproar is “Much Ado About Nothing”.

Macbeth 2004

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Macbeth and Banquo, the King’s generals, have successfully stopped a rebellion aided by the Thane of Cawdor.  King Duncan sends Rosse and Angus to give praise to his generals and reward Macbeth by naming him the Thane of Cawdor.  Before this happens, Macbeth and Banquo meet three witches who prophesize that Macbeth will be Thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland, and that Banquo shall be a father to many kings.  The two generals laugh at the prophecies until the rewards from King Duncan greet them.  Macbeth sends a letter to his wife, telling of the uncanny story.  Lady Macbeth vows to ensure her husband will become king but fears that he “is too full of the milk of human kindness”.  Together they plan Duncan’s murder, but when Macbeth hesitates, she drives him on.  She drugs the king’s guards, who fall into a deep sleep, allowing Macbeth easy access to the sleeping King. Lady Macbeth then smears the guards with blood to incriminate them. In the morning, the murder is discovered and the King’s sons flee, fearing their lives are also at risk.  In their absence Macbeth is crowned King of Scotland.  But paranoia begins to consume Macbeth; he fears his action will only benefit Banquo’s progeny and conspires to kill him and his son Fleance.  At Macbeth’s coronation feast, Banquo’s ghost appears. Members of the court, who are already becoming suspicious of the new King’s rise to power, witness his horror at the ghost, although they themselves are unaware of its presence.  The next morning Macbeth will again visit the witches to learn what the future will bring.

As You Like It 2003

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

The play opens with our hero, Orlando, bemoaning that his brother, Oliver, keeps him like a servant and not like a young gentleman.  He challenges the Duke’s wrestler Charles, hoping to win prize money, which will give him the capital he needs to leave home.  Meanwhile, Rosalind is melancholy about missing her father Duke Senior who was usurped and banished to the Forest of Arden by Duke Frederick.  Orlando and Rosalind meet at the wrestling match and fall in love, but victorious Orlando is denied the prize money and must flee home to escape his brother’s wrath.  Duke Frederick, growing suspicious of Rosalind, banishes her as well.  She and her cousin Celia flee to the Forest of Arden in disguise (Rosalind as a boy and Celia as a shepherdess) to protect themselves from ne’er do wells.  In the forest, Orlando and Rosalind meet but she must maintain her disguise.  She offers to cure Orlando of his love sickness by coaching him in the ways of love.  The forest is filled with other colourful characters including Sylvius the young shepherd who is in love with Phebe.  She, however, falls in love with Ganymede (Rosalind in disguise) instead.  Duke Senior also resides in the forest with a band of merry followers as does the voluptuous Audrey, a milkmaid who attracts the affections of Touchstone the court jester.

Measure for Measure 2003

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Duke Vincentio, realizing that he has been too lax enforcing morality laws, pretends to leave the city and appoints Angelo as his deputy, knowing he will be strict.  Angelo orders the brothels torn down and anti-fornication laws enforced.  Subsequently, he arrests Claudio and Juliet, for violating those laws, even though they intend to marry.

Angelo decides to make an example of Claudio and orders his execution.  The Duke, however, disguises himself as a Friar and returns to observe Angelo’s proceedings.  Claudio asks his friend Lucio to go to the nunnery where his sister Isabella is, and beg her to plead for his life.  In the comic sub-plot, Constable Elbow brings Pompey, a pimp, and Froth, a customer, to Angelo for judgement, but he does not want to deal with their ridiculous manner so he turns the case over to his associate, Escalus.  Isabella pleads to Angelo; smitten by her beauty, chastity and intelligence he suggests that she could trade her virginity for Claudio’s life.  The Duke, however, has a plan to save Isabella and Claudio with a scheme involving Mariana who was formerly betrothed to Angelo.

Hamlet 2002

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Castle guards see an apparition two nights in a row and ask Horatio, a scholar and friend of Hamlet, to come and verify the occurrences.  It is the ghost of the former king who has returned from the grave to ask his son Hamlet to seek revenge for him.  His brother, Claudius, has poisoned him, married the Queen and usurped the throne.  Hamlet will feign madness to uncover the truth and determine whether the ghost is his father or a demon from hell.  Meanwhile Ophelia, Hamlet’s girlfriend, is warned by her brother Laertes, and commanded by her father Polonius, not to see Hamlet; he is a prince and out of her sphere.  This breaks her heart and Hamlet’s.  Polonius suggests that Hamlet’s madness is caused by Ophelia’s rejection of his love and he and the King spy on them.  The King and Queen summon Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to determine what is wrong with Hamlet and “lead him on to pleasures.”  A group of players arrive at the castle and Hamlet asks if they will perform a play to determine the King’s innocence or guilt.

After the uproar caused by the play, Hamlet visits his mother in her private room and mistakenly stabs Polonius, who is there to spy.  His death causes Ophelia’s breakdown, leading to her death and Laertes’ return home to demand his revenge.  Unaware of Claudius’s guilt, Laertes accepts his council and uses a poisoned sward in a duelling competition with Hamlet.

The Alchemist 2002

Directed by Mark von Eschen, Set and Lighting Design by Stephen Wade, Costume Design by Beverley Kobelsky

Before the play opens, Lovewit, the owner of the house, leaves London to escape and outbreak of the plague and puts Jeremy, his butler, in charge of the house.  Jeremy disguises himself as Captain Face and sets up a con-artist shop in the house with Subtle, the Alchemist, and Dol common, a prostitute.  As the play starts, Subtle and Face argue about who plays the most important role in their conspiracy.  The argument is interrupted by Dapper, a young law clerk, who wants a charm to give him luck at gambling.  The next “mark” is Abel Drugger who wants assistance, through necromancy, in setting up his new tobacco shop.  He also asks for assistance winning the heart of a young widow:  Dame Pliant.  The other “marks” include Sir Epicure Mammon who wants Subtle to create the Philosopher’s Stone and with it, riches and the elixir of life.  With him comes Pertinax Surly, a gambler who does not trust Subtle or believe in alchemy.  Two Puritan brothers arrive (Ananias and Tribulation Wholesome) who want extra money to further their cause, and Kastril, Dame Pliant’s brother, a country boy, who has come to town to learn the art of the quarrel.

Subtle, Face and Dol Common disguise themselves in a variety of costumes to help convince their clients to pay good money for services rendered.  Face appears as Eulen Spiegel, Subtle’s servant, and Dol appears as the Queen of Fairy and the sister of a rich Lord.  The Trick of the disguise backfires on them later when Surly arrives, disguised as a Spanish Don to uncover the crooked ways of the house.