Shakespeare's Comedy Errors on the Side of Hilarity
By Erik Engman
Author, Clown, Theatre Critic at www.EatMoreArtVegas.com
Ah, Shakespeare! Many, including me, consider him to be the greatest writer in the English language. in the English language. In a relatively short span of time, he wrote some of the most epic histories, devastating tragedies, and hilarious comedies. The Comedy of Errors, loosely based on the Menaechmi by Roman playwright Plautus, is obviously one of the comedies. It’s in the name!
So, who better to tackle this comedy than a theater company run by clowns? This piece plays to Nevada Shakespeare Festival (NSF)’s strengths. At a brisk 75 minutes, director Matt Morgan deftly steers this play between reverence for the text and pushing the physical comedy and silliness to their limits.
The story concerns a young woman, Angelica of Syracuse (Bianca Paine), along with her servant, Dromio of Syracuse (Heidi Brucker Morgan), who arrives in the Greek city of Ephesus. This town is home to their long-lost twins, Angelica of Ephesus (Adriane McLean) and her servant, Dromio of Ephesus (Matthew Morgan), who lives with her husband, Adriano (Daniel Jordan), and his brother, Luciano (Erik Amblad). What follows is a madcap story of mistaken identity, unnecessary beatings, surreptitious seduction, and accusations of infidelity, theft, madness, and demonic possession.
Matt Morgan and Heidi Brucker Morgan steal the show with endless energy as the two Dromios parade their stupidity on stage. Bianca Paine and Bianca Paine and Adriane McLean are both as strong and passionate as the sisters, trying to make sense of the mixed-up situation. Daniel Jordan is as solid and humorous as Adriano, the well-meaning but clueless husband. Erik Amblad shines as Luciano, especially when he’s being seduced! A wonderful performance. On top of it all, the cast excels in playing the multitude of other roles, making each incredibly fun and different.
Special mention goes to Candice Wynants and her cavalcade of costumes, masks, and wigs. They are truly wonderful. The only issue I had was that because there were so many quick changes, the actors came on stage barely wearing their costumes a few times. Hopefully, they will have more practice with the logistics by their next performance.
The set was a simple backdrop, hiding the actors, props, and costumes well. We were lucky to have a gorgeous night with no wind. I don’t know how well it would stand up to the strong gusts we get here in Vegas. The lighting was simple and effective. As with all NSF shows, the sound was hilarious and perfectly fitting for the scene.
Let’s face it, if you’re a purist, you probably will have issues with some of the choices this production has made. This show has modern references, puppets, and anachronistic music. But, in my opinion, this is a perfect way to introduce children and adults alike to the wonderful world of William Shakespeare. And did I mention it's free? So bring a blanket, your kids, a couple of beverages, and maybe… your own lightsaber. You’ll see why. #byol
What: The Comedy of Errors
When / Where: Saturday, April 5, 6 p.m. - Peace Park, Sandy Valley
Saturday, April 19, 6 p.m. - Lorenzi Park, Sammy Davis Stage, Las Vegas
Friday, April 25, 6 p.m. - Bicentennial Park, Boulder City
Saturday, May 3, 6 p.m. - Solista Park, Inspirada, Henderson
Saturday, May 24, 3:30 p.m. - Craig Ranch Park, North Las Vegas
Tickets: FREE
Grade: ★★★★★ Delicious
Artistic Director / Director / Adaptation: Matt Morgan; Costume Design: Candice Wynants; Stage Manager: Gregory McElroy. Presented in partnership with The City of Henderson, The City of Las Vegas, The City of N Las Vegas, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce & The Clark County Office of Justin Jones
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