Islip Arts Council and Studio Theater of Long Island Shakespeare Troupe present
"Much Ado About Nothing," a comedy by William Shakespeare
A fully costumed version of "Much Ado About Nothing" has been created by Studio Theater Long Island Troupe for Islip Arts Council. This limited engagement will be performed FREE at the following locations:
July 16 at Long Island Maritime Museum, W. Sayville / 6pm
August 5 at Bay Shore Band Shell, Bay Shore / 6pm
August 16 at Brookside Park, W. Sayville / 2pm
August 24 at Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Great River / 2pm
*Schedule subject to change
Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy by William Shakespeare thought to have been written in 1598 and 1599. The play was included in the First Folio, published in 1623.
The play is set in Messina and revolves around two romantic pairings that emerge when a group of soldiers arrive in the town. The first, between Claudio and Hero, is nearly scuppered by the accusations of the villain, Don John. The second, between Claudio's friend Benedick and Hero's cousin Beatrice, takes centre stage as the play continues, with both characters' wit and banter providing much of the humour.
Through "noting" (sounding like "nothing" and meaning gossip, rumour, overhearing), Benedick and Beatrice are tricked into confessing their love for each other, and Claudio is tricked into believing that Hero is not a maiden (virgin). The title's play on words references the secrets and trickery that form the backbone of the play's comedy, intrigue, and action.
Shakespeare in the Park is made possible through a grant from the Suffolk County Office of Cultural Affairs.
