Shakespeare’s "Twelfth Night" to be presented in May and July

May 21, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida’s College of Fine Arts School of Theatre and Dance will begin its summer season with a presentation of William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” at the Constans Theatre during select dates in the months of May and July.

The performance is set during the Italian Carnival period in Shakespearean Italy and captures the spirit of Carnival through jugglers, bright colors and elaborate costumes. The set, produced by Kent Barrett, includes two large docks, a beautiful backdrop of a seaside-ocean view, and sand covering the stage.

“What makes the production so unique is the actors,” said Kim Mead, who plays the role of Olivia. “The actors bring the sometimes difficult language to life.”

Mead attributes this greatly to Judith Williams, a professor and director of the production, who created a collaborative environment with the actors. Williams, who has her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, is an internationally recognized producer, director, actor and teacher who has directed more than 75 professional and university productions.

Mead said the performance captures the heart of Shakespeare’s world with great intrigue and sexual undertones. “It’s a great story and we have a fantastic cast with great technical aspects,” she said.

In addition to “Twelfth Night,” the School of Theatre and Dance’s summer series includes “The Complete Works of Shakespeare” (Abridged), “The Foreigner,” “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” and two dance performances, “Fraulein Maria” and “Ideas of an Electronic City.”

“Twelfth Night” is staged at 7:30 p.m. on May 21-23 and July 10-12; 2 p.m. on July 13. Tickets are $13 and $9 for UF student, faculty, staff and seniors. They may be purchased at the University Box Office. For more information, call the box office at 352-392-1653 or email sotd@arts.ufl.edu.