'Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)' is 3rd Show for ESU Summer Theatre
Emporia, KS (07/02/2019) — Actors rapping to "Othello" is just one of the featured moments as ESU Summer Theatre continues its 65th anniversary season with its third production of the season, "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, abridged." A spirited and fast-paced comedy by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, "Complete Works" will be presented in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre at 7:30 p.m. nightly July 10 through 13.
Originally conceived by a group of actors for London's fringe, the script is filled with arcane and oftentimes silly information about all of the bard's plays. When first presented in New York, one critic said that "if you like Shakespeare, you'll like it and if you hate Shakespeare, you'll love it." The show uses puppets, rap music, audience participation and improvisation to present all 37 plays in 97 minutes. As a result, each performance differs slightly. "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)" ran for a very palpable nine years in London's West End. It was first presented as a part of ESU's 48th summer season in 2002.
Several ESU Theatre alums are back for the show. Bob Hart (BFA, 2010) will direct the production. The three-person cast is Elizabeth Higbee (Emporia), Ben Johnson (Wichita) and Emily Sanderlin, (Crumrod, Arkansas). Alums Ben Williams (BFA, 2010) and Tricia Stogstill (BFA, 2009) are designing the sets and costumes. The lighting designer is Mason Nicks (Leavenworth). The production stage manager is Miranda Kimble (Mullinville), and her assistant stage manager is Hannah Hendricks (Wichita). Amanda Dura is the costume shop manager and Chris Lohkamp is the technical director.
Tickets purchased in advance cost $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. Tickets purchased at the door on the day of a performance will increase to $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $8 for students. Tickets for all ESU Theatre productions can be purchased online at tickets.emporia.edu. Tickets are also available in person from the University Ticket Office in the Memorial Union or by calling 620-341-6378.
Media Attachments
Show poster for "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)"