The American Player Theatre is just a quick drive north to
Wisconsin. For 45 seasons APT has produced a wide range of shows each summer in
both their large outdoor theatre and smaller indoor location. It is always
worth the drive.
Much Ado About Nothing is the classic enemies-to-lovers
story that set the standard for all the thousands that followed it. Merciless
barbs are tossed back and forth between Beatrice and Benedick before the pair
realize they’re actually in love.
This production is set in a seaside town, complete with a maritime
theme. Beatrice (Jessica Ko) and Benedick spark like wildfire. Their chemistry
is essential for the show to work, and their verbal sparring is a joy to watch.
Marcus Truschinski wears his full heart on his sleeve even when jesting as the
loveable Benedick.
The gentle deception of their friends pushes Beatrice and
Benedick together despite their stubborn natures. Not since the film “It
Happened One Night” has a sheet and a clothesline been used so perfectly for
humor. The costumes by Daniele Tyler Mathews are beautifully detailed.
They provide an elegant functionality, and make the masquerade scene
particularly lovely!
The large cast provides excellent performance across the
board, but brothers Don Pedro (Rasell Holt) as the fearless leader and Don John
(Casey Hoekstra) as the melancholy villain are especially noteworthy. Don Pedro
cares for those around him and is invested in their futures. The young lovers,
Claudio and Hero are convincing with their immediate infatuation.
In Shakespeare’s plays the comedies are veined with strife
and the tragedies always include humor. He pairs the joys and sorrows of life
so well that they resonate centuries later. Much Ado is no exception. In the
second act, the merry frivolity takes a catastrophic turn when Claudia believes
Hero has betrayed him.
The most heartbreaking scene is not even the accusations of
her beloved, but when she must listen to her father Leonato’s lament that she
is better off dead than living with such shame. He has known her since birth
and should have more faith in her character. James Ridge captures the
distressful moment beautifully as her father. He is righteous and passionate,
never pausing to think of how his quick reaction will devastate her. A woman’s
purity being stripped by a single accusation is particularly painful to watch
since it was the only thing standing between her and ruin at that time.
Much Ado contains some of the wittiest banter Shakespeare
ever wrote. And like many of his plays, the audience is left laughing, and
wondering, did the heroine deserve better?
The American Players Theatre is wrapping up its season, but it’s never too soon to start planning your next trip there. APT will host additional shows in its indoor Touchstone Theatre as the weather cools and will announce its next season in a few months.
The theater's outdoor seats are comfortable, but definitely
bring a jacket, rain parka, blanket, bug spray, or sunblock depending on the
weather. The show will go on even if it's chilly or drizzling. There are easily
accessible restrooms and concessions at both the Up-the-Hill Theatre and the
Touchstone Theatre. There are also picnic tables for those who bring lunch or
dinner before a show.
There are plenty of camping/B&B/cabin/hotel options
nearby, depending on your preference. You can find additional information about
where to lodge, restaurants, and other attractions on APT's website.
For more information about APT and Spring Green, WI visit
its website. Spring Green, WI is only 6 hours from Indianapolis and makes a
perfect weekend getaway! There are attractions for the entire family in
addition to the APT, including the Wisconsin Dells water parks, House on the
Rock, Taliesin, and a golf resort.
Photos courtesy of APT
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