A-State Theatre Puts Comedic Spin on Shakespeare
Arkansas State University Department of Theatre will present "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] (Again)" by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, in multiple performances in October.
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 - 3 and 9 - 10, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4 and 11 in Simpson Theatre of Fowler Center.
This fast-paced, high-energy comedy condenses the entire Shakespearean canon into a single, wildly entertaining performance.
“If you are not familiar with Shakespeare, that’s perfect. The show introduces everyone to the works of William Shakespeare through humor. This show is for anyone who wants to laugh and poke fun at the world, with Shakespeare sprinkled in,” said Dallas Martinez, director.
In the play, tragedies unravel at breakneck speed, comedies collide in delightful chaos and histories are hilariously reimagined, all with sharp wit and fearless physical comedy.
“This show is all about the audience; you will laugh, participate and poke fun at the world while understanding the works of Shakespeare. This show is for those who do not want boring or dated Shakespeare performances. The one character that is needed in this play is the audience. They are part of the show,” Martinez added.
The cast includes Zoey Newcomb, Ray Pratt and Khamaree Quinn, who will present the material using their real names during the play.
The production team includes Dallas Martinez, director; Jeff McLaughlin, scenic designer; Jo Crites, costume designer; Josh Gilpin, lighting designer; Olin Hahn, sound designer; Isaiah Wallis, fight choreographer; Maggie Martin, stage manager; Josie Stevenson, assistant stage manager; Kelly Clark, assistant stage manager; Donovan Walters, assistant stage manager; and Max Emery and Heidi Holt, properties managers.
Jeff McLaughlin is technical director; Claire Abernathy is costume shop manager; Josh Gilpin is master electrician; William Hankins is light board operator; Dylan Almquist is sound board operator; Gigi Davis is wardrobe crew; Hailey Moore is wardrobe crew; Maliah Anderson is house manager; Leland Davis is house manager; and Lourdes Hernandez is poster designer.
The costume shop includes Max Emery, Jace Hahn, Skylar Hilderbrand, Kamy Lefebvre, Kat McDaniels, Cristal Martinez, Ray Pratt, Ella Scott and Isaiah Wallis.
The electronics shop includes Adam Arizaga, Olin Hahn, William Hankins, Emalee Gillean, Maggie Martin, Lynzee Owens, RJ Moad, Khamaree Quinn, Ella Scott, Jacklyn Stokes, Donovan Walters and Libby Wills.
Those working in the scene shop are Maliah Anderson, Zander Bishop, Gigi Davis, Connor Ernes, Kieran Hansen, Heidi Holt, Max Hyatt, Kamy Lefebvre, Dakota Lundberg, Zoey Newcomb, Jaleah Sage, Emarian Tate, Wesley Thompson, Garrett Veal and Donovan Walters.
Ticket prices range from $10 to $15 and can be purchased online or by calling (870) 972-2781.
The production contains rapid pacing, audience interaction and comedic interpretations of Shakespeare’s works, including mild innuendo and physical comedy.
