Love Conquers All Defense Mechanisms

For Beatrice and Benedick, wit is a full-contact sport, and each is happy to throw some elbows. But wethinks they doth protest too much. It seems love is a force they believe they’re above, even as their friends see through their comedic camouflage to what hides in their hearts. Sometimes a stubborn soul just needs that proverbial kick in the pantaloons to get out of their own way. Fun and funny, with the warmth and depth of a sultry Mediterranean sunset, offering a central couple that set the standard for rom‑coms – a perfect fit for a summer evening. Running June 14 - September 29.

Featuring Jessica Ko, Marcus Truschinski, Rasell Holt, Sam Luis Massaro, Samantha Newcomb, Miranda Pepin, Lester Purry, Briana J. Resa, Ronald Román-Meléndez, James Ridge, Triney Sandoval, Tim Gittings

Summary

The original will-they-won’t-they couple returns to the Hill Stage. Not only are Beatrice and Benedick content with their singleton status, it is their defining feature. Well, that and their piercing wit, which they put on hilarious display whenever they share space. One thing they can agree on is a fine match between their protégés, Hero and Claudio. But the course of true love never did run smooth, and there are storm clouds brewing on the horizon as Don John cooks up a wicked plan for revenge against his half-brother, Don Pedro. Will all be righted in the end? Find out in one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies.

Casting subject to change

Fresh 'Much Ado About Nothing" is giddy with love at APT
By Lindsay Christians, The Capital Times | June 27, 2024

"It’s enough to make any “Bridgerton” fan swoon. 'Much Ado About Nothing,' Shakespeare’s most literary romance, enjoys a boldly colorful new production this season in the Hill Theatre."

Perfect summer play
By Anya Van Wagtendonk, Isthmus | June 28, 2024

"Benedick and Beatrice, as sparring partners who are clearly obsessed with each other, is one of the great pairings in theater, and Marcus Truschinski and Jessica Ko nail the will-they-won't-they-but-obviously-they-will with real affection."

American Players Theatre's "Much Ado About Nothing" brings farce and fireworks to the stage
By Aaron R. Conklin, Madison Magazine | June 28, 2024

"Farcical moments are capped by a character seeming to die of slander. It could be enough to cause emotional whiplash, but the cast at American Players Theatre (APT), handles it with grace and skill of a busking juggler."

Portable Prologues - Apple Podcast

Director's Note

I have a long history with this play. It was my very first paid acting job – here in Wisconsin actually! - and I have been attached to several productions of it in some way or another over the span of my career. The excitement I feel at being able now to direct it at one of my favorite theaters in America is indescribable. APT’s commitment to language, and the excellent company of actors and support teams here provide us with the perfect opportunity to hear and experience this play freshly, and find ourselves somewhere inside of it.

APT’s idyllic grounds are a magnificent setting for the Italian seaside village of Messina, which inspires levity, romance and celebration. Inspired by my many months spent in Italy, our designers have been working with me for months on creating this world where, on the eve of a yearly feast in celebration of nature’s bounty, love is born. This close-knit community, centered around the house of Leonato, receives the visit of Don Pedro of Aragon and his retinue. Old flames are rekindled, and new ones are born. But of course, true love faces obstacles, some of which take a terrible toll on this family and community.

I love this play. I love its unabashed romanticism, its witty wordplay and outright physical humor. I even love its sometimes-seeming implausibility. I also believe in its inherent messages; those of forgiveness, redemption, and most importantly, love. Love has the power to transform people and to equip them with the strength they need to endure whatever trials they face. And, ultimately, to forgive those responsible for our pain. The enduring heaviness of the world and the complexity of our modern problems has left us wanting. As the media (sometimes rightfully) bombards us with terrible news from both abroad and our own back yards, we collectively yearn for some respite, and for some small moment to breathe. Perhaps even just to laugh. Laughter is essential. We are all deserving of some lightness and laughter. I hope this play offers you the opportunity to do so.

- Robert Ramirez, Director of Much Ado About Nothing