Much Ado About Nothing at The Prenzie Players
by Thom White
It happens to by my favorite work by William Shakespeare, so my expectations for “Much Ado About Nothing” are high.
But then, so too are my expectations for the Prenzie Players.
Shakespeare’s romantic comedy centers around two couples, Claudio and Hero who are engaged and Beatrice and Benedick who outwardly enjoy taunting each other in a joyfully hateful relationship. Their friends set out to get them to both realize and confess their love for each other, which carries the bulk of the comedy in this romantic comedy. Claudio and Hero are more so responsible for the romance.
Oh, but there’s another player in this game, Don John, who’s jealousy fosters a scheme to sabotage Claudio and Hero’s wedding. He sets in motion a seemingly confirmed rumor of Hero’s unfaithfulness.
The Prenzie’s production of Much Ado deserves much ado about it. This show is a perfect example of the strength of the Players. Director Stephanie Burrough’s choices, in collaboration with the cast, are truly inspired. From Don John’s sparring practice to a yoga session, she’s set the play in everyday modern settings, adding a believability an an approachability to the material. And, in some cases, some humor to add entertainment value (Denise Yoder’s yoga is one of the strongest points of humor in the production.)
The choice of costumes are also inspired. All are modern, but with a fluidity reminiscent of a more classic time.
While, personally, it always takes me a bit to get used to the language of Shakespeare, it took me longer to do so when I attended Much Ado, due to fatigue, not anything on the Prenzie’s part. But, it actually points to the strengths of the show. First, the Prenzies are comfortable with the language, knowing full well what they are saying and, thanks to solid acting skills, are able to convey the meaning of the words even if they are not fully understood by me, for example. On top of that, the direction, blocking and humor are so delightful, I don’t think it would matter if one could not follow the words. The production is still thoroughly enjoyable.
As for the cast, once again, it’s solid. While each and every cast member deserves a right up, I cannot take the time, nor the space to do so. But, on top of the solid cast, I would like to mention a few standouts. Cait Bodenbender is enrapturing. So comfortable in the role and with the language, she’s an absolute delight. Beth Woolley is also impressive as Don John, here as Dona Jane instead, thanks to gender-bending casting. There are times I thought Woolley was about to cross that line and take things over the top. But, she always remains in control, maintaining nuance to her performance. And, the anger she maintains control of actually makes her stunning. It adds to her physical beauty, making for a mix of a villain who is so enticing. Truly remarkable.
Much Ado About Nothing runs this Friday, Saturday and Sunday night (March 13-15) at 8:00. If you arrive late, you will not be seated, so be sure to arrive early. Doors open at 7:30 at the Village Theatre in the Village of East Davenport. Tickets are only available at door for eight dollars.