PRESS RELEASE
UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS
COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS AND COMMUNICATION
May 29, 2013
CONTACT: Dr. Mary Ruth Marotte, (501) 428-4165; mrmarotte@arkshakes.com
ARKANSAS SHAKESPEARE THEATRE’S 7TH SEASON
TO OPEN JUNE 6 WITH MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
CONWAY — Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre will open its seventh summer season June 6 with Much Ado About Nothing, outdoors at The Village at Hendrix in Conway.
Shakespeare’s beloved comedy showcases the wit and wisecracks of Beatrice and Benedick, who realize, much to their mutual surprise, their shared romantic feelings.
“Beatrice and Benedick are strong-minded individuals who fail to see the love that is right in front of them,” AST artistic director Rebekah Scallet said. “Audiences of all ages will enjoy watching the hilarious antics that ensue as their love affair unfolds.”
Ron Thomas of Chicago and Little Rock native Heather Dupree, who both played lead roles last year for AST in Twelfth Night and Richard III, will return this season to play Benedick and Beatrice.
“Audiences who saw the plays last summer will remember Ron and Heather for their notable roles last year,” said Mary Ruth Marotte, executive director of AST. “It’s great to have returning actors because audiences experience a fresh side of that actor in the new season. For that reason it is fun to take in the entire festival — all four plays — in June. You’ll see an actor play a villain in one play and a hero in another.”
All of the outdoor performances are “pay what you can,” with a suggested donation of $10 per person. Bring your family, your lawn chair and picnic blanket, and enjoy a night of live theater under the stars.
AST will also produce the musical Oliver!, King Lear and a children’s adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (“Bottom’s Dream”) in the Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall on the University of Central Arkansas campus. For tickets or more information about AST’s summer shows, visit www.arkshakes.com or call the Reynolds box office at (501) 450-3265 or 1-866-810-0012.
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