Shakespeare in Love
by Wimberley Players

Feb. 23 - Mar. 17
Fridays-Sundays

Inspired by the popular film of the same name and adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, Shakespeare in Love offers a delightful glimpse into the life of the young William Shakespeare as he finds himself hopelessly in love with the beautiful Viola, who becomes the muse for his iconic love story. Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan England, this enchanting comedy brims with mistaken identities, backstage antics, the enduring power of love, and a bit with a dog.

 

Director Bridget Farias-Gates, known for her imaginative approach to storytelling and attention to detail, brings her own creativity to the production, infusing the stage with all the charm and vibrancy of Renaissance-era London. With this abundantly talented cast of actors, live musicians, and creative designers, this show promises to transport audiences to a world where words become poetry and passion ignites the soul.

 

The Wimberley Players Artistic Committee “is thrilled to present Shakespeare in Love to our audiences. This production celebrates the magic of live theatre and the enduring legacy of Shakespeare's timeless works. Under Bridget's direction, our cast and designers have poured their hearts into bringing this enchanting story to life, and we cannot wait to share it with our patrons."

Produced by Karin Cunningham.

 

Opening Night Summary by Karin Cunningham

Last Friday night the Wimberley Players successfully launched its 45th season with a delightful rendition of the play based on the popular 1998 movie, Shakespeare in Love to a SOLD-OUT house and standing ovation! Director Bridget Farias-Gates and an all-star cast of veteran designers and actors delivered a captivating overture for the Players exciting new season.

Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan England, Shakespeare in Love is brimming with music, comedy, passion, poetry, and the energy that only live theatre can give. Farias-Gates' direction has infused this story with beautifully staged tableaus, dances, a bit with a dog, and above all, romance!

At the heart of the production lies the enchanting backstory of the young playwright Will Shakespeare, portrayed by Nathan Bachtell, and his tumultuous journey in composing his greatest love story, Romeo and Juliet. Bachtell brings such charming authenticity to his character that he is, quite simply, what we imagine a young Will Shakespeare would be. In particular, the genuine chemistry between the young author and his muse, the spirited Viola de Lesseps, played by Fallon Goldsmith, unfolds with palpable intensity. Goldsmith glows in her portrayal of a stunningly beautiful young girl exuding power and strength in her convictions. Together they are mesmerizing! Their love story parallels the narrative, weaving a tapestry of young love and artistic inspiration that resonates long after the final curtain falls.

Although the story centers around the young lovers, the interplay and drama that goes on behind the curtain is an essential component to this story and the charismatic ensemble of veteran comedic actors is more than up to the task of interpreting this play's sharp wit and clever wordplay. Lead characters Camden Rivers, Kevin Gates, Rob Novak, Ameer Mobarak, Daniel Bisset, Mike D’alonzo, Steven Cruser, Mark Webster, and Carla Daws as Nurse hit every comedic note with perfection. The remaining all-star ensemble of actors includes Zach Watson, Ieleen Cerda, Andy Burke, Carter Holland, Kelly Martel, Elysia Becken, Chloe Lawrence, Wade Smith, Nick Schraub, Bella the dog, and Roxanne Strobel as Queen Elizabeth, each enriching their respective roles with individual flair and skill.

Throughout the Players' rendition of Shakespeare in Love, the theater resonated with period appropriate instrumental music provided by Bill Perkins and Guy Ben-Moshe on guitar and mandolin, and the lush live voices of Rebecca Woods and company. Woods’ voice covers ranges several octaves with perfection as she portrays both male and female roles. Her and the musician’s contributions were a fitting testament to the enduring power of combining storytelling and music to create theatre magic.

Farias-Gates staging along with the meticulously crafted set by Todd Martin, lighting by Chris McKnight, costumes by Kristin Knipp and Virginia Davis, props by Cara Mosier, and hair by Bridget Cook flawlessly transport the audience from the Queen’s court to the pubs of London to behind the scenes of the hallowed halls of Elizabethan-era theater, and even a balcony scene. From rich period costumes to evocative set pieces and props, every detail is rendered with precision, enhancing the immersive experience, and inviting us to lose ourselves in the milieu of 1593 London.

For this observer, Shakespeare in Love stands as a triumphant opening of The Wimberley Players' 45th season, reaffirming the company's commitment to excellence and innovation in the performing arts. Under Bridget Farias-Gates' inspired direction, the interplay between comedy and drama ensures that audiences are thoroughly entertained from start to finish, as laughter and tears intermingle in equal measure.

Tickets are selling fast – don’t miss your opportunity to see this captivating production and poignant reminder of the timeless allure of Shakespeare's genius as he proves that no one can resist the enduring power of love.

 

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. (www.concordtheatricals.com).

 

About The Wimberley Players: Established in 1979, The Wimberley Players is a non-profit community theatre dedicated to enriching the cultural life of Wimberley, Texas, and its surrounding communities. Through engaging performances, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, The Wimberley Players strives to foster a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

 

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Shakespeare in Love
by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, adapted by Lee Hall
Wimberley Players

 

February 23 – March 17, 2024

Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m. 
Reserved Seating $25; Students $20 with ID. (Ticket prices include all fees.)

Tickets are available online at www.wimberleyplayers.org or by calling 512-847-0575.

The Wimberley Playhouse is located at 450 Old Kyle Road, Wimberley, Texas, 78676. 
Appropriate for all audiences, ages 12+