This year’s upcoming production of Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor”, has the Munster Theater company rattling with anticipation. The mischievous performance takes place October 5-8. Tickets are available online or upon arrival for $8.
“This is actually the first time that I know of, in terms of what I’ve seen in our show history, that Shakespeare will be performed on our stage. “ said Mr. Palasz, MHS theater director.
Transitioning from last year’s contemporary piece, Spongebob: The Musical, the MHS theater department has decided to challenge their students by dancing along the lines of comedy, and classical in hopes to expose students and performers to as many genres of theater as possible.
“I like Shakespeare a lot, I think there’s a lot of value in it and I’m grateful to be able to use those skills that don’t very often get to be used.” said Delaney Craig, playing Mistress Paige.
Written by Shakespeare at the request of Queen Elizabeth I in the early 15th century, this performance takes place in the town of Windsor during the 1940’s. The Merry Wives of Windsor addresses the storylines of cheating, scheming, jealousy, and revenge. The actors have been working hard to master their performances.
“It’s Odd getting used to the phrasing and the grammatical structure, but just saying it over and over, and reading it, and looking at it, and writing really helps.” said Delaney, “Also a little bit of LitCharts and a little no fear shakespeare.”
Our actors have been hastily preparing since last summer, giving them a few months to fully master their characters. While tech members are creating props and ensuring things run smoothly; cast members are working hard to delicately portray each character.
“There hasn’t been a play I haven’t felt connected to in some way, but that’s just because you spend so much time analyzing everything; It’s like AP lit on crack.” said Clover Sarkady, who plays Mistress Ford, “I actually recorded everyone else’s lines and left blank space for my lines, so at home I just play the recording, then I say my lines.”
Along with personal methods of memorization, cast members also participate in drills like blocking. These help actors position themselves according to the scene being performed. Blocking also assists actors in connecting to their character, which then helps you connect to them.
“For me, getting into character is changing my body posture and how I carry myself, because if I’m carrying myself like Clover, I’m gonna be Clover.” she said.
The Merry Wives of Windsor is set during a time when job opportunities were plentiful, and feminism was on its rise. While immersing yourself in the environment of mid-century drama, you can gain perspective of the art that helped society evolve.
“Go out and support your fellow Mustangs,” Mr. Palasz said.
