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Shakespeare is made entertaining and relevant to the modern audience in the theatre department’s production of “Measure for Measure.” The show opened last weekend in the Byron Theatre in the Newman Center and will run through next weekend.
Lord Angelo, played by Tony Domenick, is left temporarily in charge of Vienna by Duke Vincentio, played by Weston Odell, who pretends to leave but instead dresses as a friar to observe the goings-on.
Angelo is a strict character and takes it upon himself to shut down prostitution houses and send unlawful citizens to prison.
The plot follows the arrest of Claudio, played by Cody Schuyler, who is arrested for impregnating his love interest, Juliet, played by Jessica Dorcey. Claudio’s virtuous sister, Isabella, played by MacKenzie Beyer, along with most other characters in the play get caught up in deceit, scandal and sex.
“Measure for Measure” is considered to be one of Shakespeare’s more controversial works and there are moments of genuine hilarity in the performance of this comedy. You’re belly-rolling laughs will be coupled with unsettling sensations incited by the dark themes.
The dramaturgs, Hope Barnes and Lauren Stanek, wrote in their notes “The extreme situations depicted in the play are, in fact, quite relevant to the many forms of extremism that we see play out across the globe every day.”
The relativity this Shakespearean play has to modern times was excellently carried out in most all aspects of the performance including the set and the costumes.
The costume designs appeared to have period-appropriate inspirations but were completed with contemporary details.
The Byron Theatre was transformed by a minimalistic set consisting of seven tall frames that hold blinds reaching to the floor and a stage built up on three steps. The audience sits on one-half of this round theater. The structure is aesthetically pleasing, painted a cream color and adorned with textured designs.
The characterizations are just as intriguing as the other visual aspects and though Shakespearean language can be stuffy, the character development displayed by all the actors will hold your attention entirely.
Opening weekend was free to the DU community however, this weekend tickets are $15 for general admission, $12 for seniors and students. Tickets are free for military with ID.
On Friday and Saturday there are performances at 8 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Contact the box office at 303-871-7720.
The theater is located at South University Boulevard and South York Street, there is free parking in the parking garage on Wesley Avenue at South University Boulevard.
