SUNY New Paltz presents Shakespeare’s play Much Ado About Nothing

The Department of Theatre Arts at SUNY New Paltz will present William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing, April 16-19, and 23-26, in McKenna Theatre located on the New Paltz campus. The play is directed by Associate Professor Frank Trezza (Theatre Arts).

This sensuous and romantic comedy is based upon the story of two very different sets of lovers, Claudio and Hero, who are young and impetuous, and Beatrice and Benedick, who are more mature and cautious. The main plot revolves around obstacles to the union of two young lovers, and the play’s sub-plot, the “merry war” of the sexes. Much Ado About Nothing pushes the limits of the comic genre almost to the confines of tragedy.

“This is an unusual play filled with contrasts,” said Trezza. “We have a wedding that doesn’t transpire, which leads to broken hearts and friendships. It is also the only Shakespeare play where we have a funeral (or at least a memorial service) just before the end of the play. These are most unusual events for the world of a comedy.”

A post-show talk-back, with some of the cast, crew and creative staff of the production, will be held on April 18 in the theatre after the evening performance. This event is free and open to the public.

In conjunction with the play, Shakespeare and the Comic Spirit, a one-day symposium and performance for secondary teachers will be held on April 18. Laughter, learning, and classroom tips will be part of the discussions in plenary sessions and workshops. The day also includes a conversation with the director. A full performance of Much Ado About Nothing will be presented on April 22 at 10a.m. in McKenna Theatre for high school students and teachers. The symposium offers discounted early registration and Continuing Education credits. Contact Shakespeare@newpaltz.edu or 845-257-3034 for additional information on the symposium and trezzaf@newpaltz.edu for information and discounted student tickets for the special April 22 performance.

Prior to coming to New Paltz, Trezza served as Chair of Theatre Arts at Bradley University and Director of Academics at Florida State University. He trained professionally with the legendary Uta Hagen and at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts.

Trezza’s professional theatre credentials as an actor and director include work in New York City in film, television and on the stage. At SUNY New Paltz, he directed Company, Guys and Dolls, King Lear, and The Caucasian Chalk Circle and has appeared as an actor in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Our Town.

Performance dates and times for Much Ado About Nothing are April 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 at 8 p.m. and April 19 & 26 at 2p.m. Tickets are $18 for general reserved, $16 for seniors (62+), New Paltz faculty and staff, non-SUNY New Paltz students, and $10 for SUNY New Paltz students. The student ticket price for the April 22 performance is $10. The Box Office, located in Parker Theatre, is open Monday – Friday, from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased online at http://www.newpaltz.edu/theatre. For additional information call (845) 257- 3880 or email boxoffice@newpaltz.edu.