Much Ado About Nothing

West Bend Theatre Company is proud to present an ‘80’s rendition of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy, “Much Ado About Nothing” August 23rd – 26th at Jansen Family Park in West Bend. Director, Adam Czaplewski, would like "for everyone involved to have a lot of fun" - it's suitable for all ages - and is practically a musical.

This Shakespeare adaptation is designed to connect with people who otherwise wouldn’t appreciate the centuries-old language and prose. 1980's Music and Dance brings the show into the 21st century in a very relatable manner.

The comedy is classic, the romance is charming, and Director Czaplewski has embellished his production with music and dance, including Soft Cell’s ‘Tainted Love’, David Bowie’s ‘Let’s Dance’, Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun.’

Much Ado About Nothing is a romantic comedy between Hero and Claudio: Claudio loves Hero and Hero loves Claudio. It seems nothing can tear them apart. Beatrice (Hero's cousin) and Benedick both love and despise each other. It seems nothing can bring their love together. The play centers around themes of romance, jealousy, and deceit, with music and dance adapted to an '80's setting. Dogberry (a comically bumbling police chief) and his deputy can't seem to do anything right. It has all the comedic elements one could want and is a great introduction to Shakespeare for those who may not be as familiar with it.

For those still not sure about Shakespeare, an In-formance, one hour prior to curtain time at all performances will enlighten. The In-Formance includes a bit more comedy, and what you missed in high school English class. Your ears will get a bit of training on how to listen to Shakespearean English, and you'll enjoy a light, re-visit to the famous "Balcony Scene" from Romeo and Juliet. "Brit Lit" expert, Patricia McIntyre helps explain the romance, pending tragedy, and teen angst that captures Romeo and Juliet's tale Renaissance era and Modern Era actors take the stage to dramatize the tale.

Come explore the joys and perils of falling in love. Reminisce with the sounds of the 1980's. Enjoy learning about one of Shakespeare's greatest comedies. Relish in the romantic promise of Romeo and Juliet. And discover that there is "Much Ado" about Shakespeare.

Advance tickets are sold exclusively by West Bend Theatre Company at wbtheatreco.com. Tickets will also be sold at the door. Popcorn on the tables and optional beverages will add to a relaxed and fun atmosphere.

Jansen Park is located just north or Highway 33 on Schuster Road in West Bend. The Jansen Park Pavilion is indoors. Table and chair seating, allows attendees to enjoy complementary popcorn at the tables, and audiences may purchase beverages (soft drinks, wine or beer) to enjoy during the performances.

Dates & Location:

Thursday, August 23rd – Saturday, August 25th

7:30 – 10:00 PM

Optional Informance begins one hour prior

Sunday, August 26th

2:00 PM

Optional Informance begins one hour prior

Jansen Family Park

3745 Schuster Drive

West Bend, WI, 53090

Tickets: Exclusively online at wbtheatreco.com

Music and Songs:

• "Let’s Go Crazy" by Prince

• "Let’s Dance" by David Bowie

• "Bad" by Michael Jackson

• "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell

• "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper

About the West Bend Theatre Company

West Bend Theatre Company is a nonprofit organization that produces excellent theatre and gives back to the community. A portion of each show’s proceeds benefit a local non-profit organization. Learn more at www.wbtheatreco.com. This performance is in partnership with Concordia University Theatre Department.