Grossmont College Theatre Arts Department will present a 1920s speakeasy-themed production of William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” from May 15 to 24 at the Stagehouse Theatre.
Directed by Linda Libby, the adaptation brings Shakespeare’s comedy into the world of jazz, flappers and hidden encounters. The story follows Viola, played by Angelina Rodriguez, who disguises herself as a young man named Cesario after a shipwreck leaves her to navigate the world of Illyria. Viola soon finds herself entangled in a love triangle involving Duke Orsino, portrayed by Dominic La Frantz, and Olivia, played by Kaylee Kloberdanz.
As this drama unfolds, Olivia’s household stirs up its own chaos, with Shanell as Maria, Ace N. Spades as Sir Toby Belch and Tim Webb as Sir Andrew Aguecheek, all working to shake up the rigid Malvolio played by Stephen Foo.
The production also features performances by Faith “Sniff” Davidson as Feste, Erik D. Resendiz Fuentes as Sebastian, Aubrey Schreier as Antonia, Tori Mitchell as Valentine/Sailor/Ensemble, Em Danque as Captain and Priest and Eliana Tuley as Sailor/Ensemble who round out the cast.
Libby said the 1920s setting offers a fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic and amplifies the play’s themes.
“Twelfth Night is one of Shakespeare’s most joyous and playful works,” Libby said in a statement. “Setting it in the vibrant world of the 1920s allows us to fully embrace its themes of disguise, identity, transformation, and celebration.”
Performances will be held Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with additional matinee performances at 2 p.m., on Saturdays, May 17 and 24. Tickets are available at www.StagehouseTheatre.com or by calling the box office at (619) 644-7234. Prices are $18 for the general public, $14 for seniors, military personnel and educators, and $10 for students.
The Grossmont College Theatre Arts Department is known for its professional-level productions and features instructors with experience at La Jolla Playhouse, The Old Globe and Broadway Productions such as “Come From Away.”
“Audiences can expect an evening of laughter, romance, and a toe-tapping jazz-infused energy that brings this classic to life in a thrilling new way,” Libby said.
