November 4, 2004

Mainstage Theatre; ‘Much Ado About Nothing’

“Much Ado About Nothing,” one of Shakespeare’s liveliest comedies, will launch Northwestern University’s 2004-05 Mainstage Theatre season. It also is the centerpiece of a three-day Shakespeare symposium.

“Much Ado About Nothing” runs Nov. 5-7 at the Ethel M. Barber Theatre.

Performances are scheduled for 8 p.m. Nov. 5 and Nov. 6, and 2 p.m. Nov. 7, at the Ethel M. Barber Theatre, 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston.

Originally performed in Elizabethan England more than 500 years ago — Northwestern’s updated version will be re-imaged in post-World War II America and underscored with big band sounds, sailors returning triumphantly from a war, female factory workers a la Rosie the Riveter, and three ensemble dance numbers that capture the music and fancy footwork of the mid-1940s.

The popular romantic comedy about a love relationship between two strong personalities who see each other as combatants rather than partners will be directed by local actress Cindy Gold, associate professor of theatre.

“We will not approach Shakespeare’s text any differently, but we will try to capture the physical sense of the time,” said Gold. “The music and the energy, albeit a bit nostalgic, will energize the piece and convey the story quite well.”

The story focuses on Beatrice, a factory worker, and Benedict, the sailor who once spurned her. Both are so private and brilliant and filled with pride that they find it difficult to admit their feelings. Romance is in the air as Beatrice and Benedict’s friends invent clever ruses to bring the lovers together.

For more information or to order a season subscription or single tickets by phone, call the Theatre and Interpretation Center box office at (847) 491-7282.