The space now known as Theatre Unchained is a remarkably cozy space for Shakespeare. It’s also one of the more comfortable theatrical snuggeries in greater Milwaukee. It doesn’t compromise comfort for intimacy in the way some spaces have been known to do on certain occasions. Space is there where it needs to be. Proximity is there where it needs to be. It’s a really nice balance reminiscent of the Alchemist or the space Splinter Group is operating out of.
Next month, the space once again finds itself home to Shakespeare as Theatre Unchained presents both A Comedy of Errors and Richard III on single-evening performances. That’s a whole lot of Shakespeare. Of course its going to be condensed. Is it going to be too much? Not if they handle the condensation in just the right way. Shakespeare was written for a different era. The modern attention span craves a kind of density of content that a two-show evening of Shakespeare might just thrive in.
Theatre Unchained’s Milwaukee Shakespeare Festival runs June 10-28 at the space on 1024 S. 5th St. For ticket reservations and more information, visit theatreunchained.com.
