Published: March 23, 2009 12:56 pm      

Shakespearean scenes featured in upcoming A&M-C play

Shakespeare's "Ontological Magick Circus" premiers Thursday, March 26, on the Main Stage of the Texas A&M University-Commerce University Playhouse.

It has been described by Dr. John Hanners, the playwright/director, as a "friendly user's guide to Shakespeare for those who are intimidated by Shakespeare."

Within the three rings of Shakespeare's Ontological Magic Circus actors the characters will transport the audience to Italy, Rome, Hamlet's Elsinore Castle, the magical forest of Arden, the Scottish moors, and beyond.

This is a face paced, high-energy production features familiar and unfamiliar scenes and poetry from Shakespeare's greatest works, Hanners said.

Five actors of the theatre program's most talented actors will portray a total of 39 roles. Cases of intrigue, disguise, mistaken identity, and surprise mark some of the play's most hilarious moments. Special effects and magic are also featured.

The performance contains mature themes and is recommended for middle school ages and above.

Part of the University Playhouse's mission is to provide exciting, entertaining, and educational theatre experiences to university students, and to public, private, and charter school students in our region. Two 10 a.m. matinees performances are scheduled each week for middle school and high school groups.

Tickets to regular performances are $10 for non-student adults, $8 for senior citizens, and $3 for students.

Performances are Thursday, March 26, and Friday, March 27, at 10 a.m. for school groups, and 8 p.m. evening performances.

Saturday, March 28, there will be another evening performance at 8 p.m. and a matinee will follow on Sunday afternoon, March 29, at 3 p.m.

Performances continue Thursday, April 2, and Friday, April 3, at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, April 4, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 5.

For information and reservations, call the University Playhouse Box Office at 903-886-5900.