USU theater department presents Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing”

The Utah State University Theatre Arts department is putting on a production of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” this month. It is being directed by Adrianne Moore, the Theatre Arts department head.

The play is a comedy. It tells the story of two different couples while intertwining themes of misunderstanding, love and deception. The cast began rehearsing on October 23rd and practices for four hours a night.

Lainey Woo plays the female lead of Hero, the young daughter of Leonato.

“(The show is) funny, energetic banter,” Woo said.

Theatergoers may be surprised by a few things in the show, including women cast in male roles. The play also features independent women.

“The play stars strong female characters. Especially for this period, it is exceptional to see really intelligent, witty women,” said Claire Harlan, who plays the role of Beatrice.

Tyler Campbell stars as Leonato, the governor of Messina and one of the leading male characters. Campbell encouraged students to come out and see the production for themselves.

“Seeing live theatre is a magical experience and being able to see it for free is an even greater luxury,” he said. “The most important reason to come see the show is because of the themes of deceit and deception, which are prevalent in today’s society. There is no greater playwright to discuss this ideal than William Shakespeare.”

The play will be running December 1-2 and 6-9 and begins at 7:30 p.m. There will be 2:00 p.m. matinee showings on the 2nd and 9th.

On the opening night of the show, the cast will come out after the play to answer questions and discuss the production. Admission is free for USU students with ID.

For more information on ticket sales and future productions, visit cca.usu.edu.

—shelby.black@aggiemail.usu.edu
@shelbsterblack