For the first time in its history, the Grand Theatre is producing a play written by William Shakespeare.
“The Comedy of Errors” revolves around two pairs of identical twins who were separated at birth. When Antipholus and Dromio of Syracuse visit the city of Ephesus, the home of their twin brothers, a series of unfortunate events occur as a result of mistaken identity. The play stars Daniel Beecher as Antipholus of Syracuse, Daniel McLeod as Antipholus of Ephesus, and Kelly Wanberg as their father, Egeon.
Seth Miller, the artistic and executive director of the Grand Theatre, believes the humor in “The Comedy of Errors” appeals to all audiences.
“I think people think of Shakespeare as highbrow and hard to understand,” Miller explains, “but there’s nothing highbrow about this.”
Miller says the theatre is fortunate to have Jamie Rocha Allan directing the production. Allan, who is from London, used his background and knowledge of Shakespeare to adapt the script for this intended audience.
“Every production of Shakespeare is unique,” Miller says, adding that Allan’s direction is what makes this version special.
Miller believes the cast and crew have done an excellent job bringing this infamous play to life. With a combination of newcomers and veteran actors, “The Comedy of Errors” made its debut Feb. 3 after nearly six weeks of rehearsal.
“It’s been a great experience overall and I have loved working on this show,” he says.
The venue itself provides another unique element to this production.
“It’s a great show,” says patron services coordinator Breezy Bassett. “It’s backstage at the Grand Theatre so it’s a small, more intimate and more engaging setting.”
“The Comedy of Errors” will run through Saturday, Feb. 25. Students are eligible to receive a free ticket, with general admission tickets starting at $16. Contact the Grand Theatre box office for more information.
