Santa Cruz Shakespeare is gearing up for its highly anticipated production of 'Much Ado About Nothing', a witty and beloved comedy by William Shakespeare. The play is set to grace the stage this week, with a talented cast and crew bringing the classic text to life. Among the cast are Allie Pratt as Hero, Jono Eiland as Benedick, Charlotte Boyce Munson as Beatrice, and Will Block as Claudio. The ensemble cast also includes Thomas Bigley, Chris Cherin, Lily Cline, Dan Donohue, Patty Gallagher, Cameron Kauffman, Renée Torchio MacDonald, Charles Pasternak, Izzy Pedego, Mike Ryan, and Paige Lindsey White.
This production is part of a summer season that includes Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' and 'Fences' by August Wilson, as well as 'Private Lives' by Noël Coward and 'The Last Five Years' by Jason Robert Brown. The theme of 'Til Death Do Us Part' ties these diverse productions together, offering a rich and varied theatrical experience.
Santa Cruz Shakespeare, a nationally recognized nonprofit professional repertory theater company, has been presenting live Shakespeare and other plays for over 40 years. Their outdoor amphitheater in DeLaveaga Park can seat more than 490 people and offers both afternoon matinees and evening performances under the stars. This year marks their 12th anniversary, and they continue to bring high-quality theater to the community.
The article also mentions other local events, such as the 32nd anniversary of Day on the Beach, celebrating accessible ocean sports in Santa Cruz. Additionally, the Santa Cruz Jug Band Festival is returning for an expanded year, and a historical piece on dodging streetcars in Santa Cruz in 1910 is featured. Supervisor Monica Martinez's efforts to double down on a free green waste program in the Santa Cruz Mountains are also highlighted.
In my opinion, the diverse range of events and the commitment to bringing high-quality theater to the community make Santa Cruz a vibrant cultural hub. The combination of Shakespearean comedy, local music festivals, and historical exploration showcases the city's rich tapestry of arts and culture. It's a testament to the community's dedication to preserving and celebrating its heritage while also embracing new and diverse forms of expression.
