Scenic City Shakespeare in the Park returns to the historic Sniteman cabin at Greenway Farms for five weekends of free outdoor performances in May and June. This Regency romance themed adaptation of William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing "promises a delightful experience for audiences, continuing Scenic City Shakespeare's mission to produce great theatre and education programs that engage and inspire."
Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7 p.m. May 16 and 17, May 23 and 24, May 30 and 31, June 6 and 7, and June 13 and 14. Admission is free, reservations are recommended. Bring outdoor chairs and blankets - seating is not provided. For reservations, vendor and volunteer sign-up, sponsorship opportunities, and more information please visit sceniccityshakespeare.org.
Review for Much Ado About Nothing:
Following the success of fall 2024’s Macbeth, Scenic City Shakespeare brings together a talented cast and creative team for Shakespeare's witty battle of the sexes. Much Ado About Nothing, adapted by Director Emma Collins, introduces “Lady Shakespeare” - a mysterious scandal sheet author whose identity remains a mystery until the exciting reveal.
Scenic City Shakespeare was founded in 2020 by Emma Collins and Ryan Laskowski, who led the company through the pandemic with an innovative series of virtual performances using green screens and photo overlays. Much Ado About Nothing marks the company’s seventh free outdoor production at Greenway Farm Park, and is presented through support from ArtsBuild and the Tennessee Arts Commission, and through donations from individuals and businesses across the Chattanooga area.
The cast of Much Ado About Nothing includes a mix of returning company members and new faces. Jacob Moore (Benedick) and Kashun Parks (Beatrice) star as sharp-tongued adversaries whose friends bring them together through a series of hilarious and tragic events. Sarah Roberts (Hero) and Jonathan Harris (Claudio) bring this romance to life with a strong supporting cast that includes Ed Huckabee (Leonato), Arche Twitty (Sexton), Art Sanner (Friar Francis), Dana Rogers (Dogberry), Hunter Rodgers (Don John), Marianna Allen (Margaret, Balthasar), Mason Chattin-Carter (Borachio), Morgan Robbins (Ursula, Verges), Jamie McIntosh (Prince Don Pedro), Lindsey Swanson (Seacoal), Maria Chattin (Antonia, Conrade), Zoey Roberts (Watch), and Karilayn Massingale (Watch). Joining Director Emma Collins on the creative team are Technical Director Ryan Laskowski, Music Director Marianna Allen, Choreographer Monica Ellison, Intimacy Director Rachel Craig, Fight Choreographer Will Snyder (Battlekat Combat), and Stage Managers Antine Offenbach and Anne Rushing.