Moorpark College Theatre Arts is proud to announce its Summer 2010 production of William Shakespeare’s romantic Comedy “Two Gentlemen of Verona.” Set in the rockin’ 1950s, “Two Gentlemen of Verona” tells the story of life-long friends who are torn apart when Proteus falls for his best friend’s girl. This classic comedy will run from July 15 through August 1 in the studio theatre of the Performing Arts Center on the campus of Moorpark College.
“Two Gentlemen of Verona” is thought to be one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays. It has all the charm and laughs of his greatest comedic romps complete with verbal acrobatics, slapstick clowns, and mistaken identities. Proteus and Valentine are honor-bound friends for life. That is until Proteus sets eyes on Silvia, the woman that Valentine loves. When Julia, Proteus’ girlfriend, catches him serenading Silvia, she finds herself in the unenviable position of liaison between her boyfriend and his new love interest. Throw in a couple of bumbling servants and an ungrateful cur, and you have fun for the entire family. “Setting this classic play in the 1950s has really opened it up for our students,” said John Loprieno, Director and Moorpark College Theatre Arts faculty member. “By giving the material a more contemporary context, it takes Shakespeare off the pedestal and places the characters in a realm more akin to the lives of the performers. We’ve got greasers, poodle skirts, beatniks, a doo wop group of wandering minstrels, and a live animal on the stage. What more could you ask for in summer entertainment?”
“Two Gentlemen of Verona” runs Thursdays through Sundays July 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31 at 8:00 p.m. and July 18, 25, and August 1 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets range from $10 to $15, with senior and group discounts available. Order online and you can save 20 percent. For tickets or more information go to www.MoorparkCollege.edu/PAC or call the box office at 805.378.1485. |
