The Wimberley Players announce the first production of its 2024 Season, “Shakespeare in Love,” that opens February 23 and continues weekends through March 17.
Inspired by the film of the same name and adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, “Shakespeare in Love” offers a glimpse into the life of the young William Shakespeare as he finds himself hopelessly in love with the beautiful Viola, who becomes the muse for this iconic love story. Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan England, the comedy brims with mistaken identities, backstage antics, the enduring power of love, and “a bit with a dog.”
The cast consists of Nathan Bachtell as Will Shakespeare, Camden Rivers as Marlowe, Fallon Goldsmith as Viola, Carla Daws as Nurse, Kevin Gates as Henslowe, Rob Novak as Fennyman, Steven Cruser as Burbage, Daniel Bisett as Wessex, Mike D’Alonso as Deslesseps, Ameer Mobarak as Ned, Roxanne Strobel as Queen Elizabeth, Mark Webster as Wabash, Zach Watson as Ralph, Ieleen Cerda as John, Andy Burke as Sam. Plus, an allstar ensemble of actors and musicians including Carter Holland, Rebecca Woods, Kelly Martel, Elysia Becken, Chloe Lawrence, Wade Smith, Bill Perkins, Nick Schraub, and Guy Ben-Moshe.
Director Bridget Farias-Gates, known for her imaginative approach to storytelling and attention to detail, brings her own creativity to the production, infusing the stage with the charm and vibrancy of Renaissance-era London. With a talented cast of actors, live musicians, and creative designers, the show promises to transport audiences to a world where words become poetry and passion ignites the soul. Produced by Karin Cunningham, SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.
Performances are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 23 through March 17. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday shows start at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at wimberleyplayers. org or by calling 512 847-0575. Reserved seating is $25 and $20 for students with ID. Ticket prices include all fees. Performances are appropriate for all audiences, ages 12 and above. The Wimberley Playhouse is located at 450 Old Kyle Road in Wimberley.
