“Local actors showcase original style in web series production of Shakespeare’s ​Much Ado About Nothing​.”

From a press release:

“How can we create something “together” when we’re not…”together”? Join over 25 local actors as they leverage the powers of their technology, immediate surroundings, and quarantine partners to bring you Shakespeare’s quick-witted comedy of love, miscommunication, forgiveness, and hope. Each act of ​Much Ado About Nothing​ will be released serially on YouTube starting Friday, May 15 at 7pm.

The show will be ticketed to generate modest compensation for the artists, all of whom have lost gigs and income due to the coronavirus. Casting and production for the series has been largely volunteer-based: actors voted for the scenes they wanted to work on, and these assignments were finalized by Pandemic Theatre founder, Acacia Danielson. The artists have been given creative freedom in the interpretation, casting, and style of their scenes. However, to maintain a sense of continuity, they have been asked to abide by certain character and setting conventions which the audience will receive in advance of viewing.

Ticket purchasers will be sent a link to a YouTube playlist of the show. A new ticket purchase is not required for each week of the release; rather, audience members can check back on the playlist each week to see the new videos that have been uploaded. (Please note: those who purchase tickets before May 15 will be emailed the link separately on that day.)

The acts will be released every Friday by 7pm EST from May 15-June 12: May 15–Act I, May 22–Act II, June, 29–Act III, June 5–Act IV, June 12–Act V.

Credits
Producer & Director​–Acacia Danielson
Principal Cast​: Sarah Yarborough, Michael Dix Thomas, Rachel Felstein, Bess Kaye, Nerissa Hart, Kellie Honey, Aviel Honey, Mason Catharini, Dylan Arredondo, Elizabeth Ung, Erin Denman, Em Whitworth, Danny Cackley, Jenna Berk, Matt Castleman, Darren Marquardt, Suzy Alden, Meredith Garagiola, Conor Patrick Donahue, Kathleen Akerley, Ryan Driscoll, Charlotte Vaughn Raines
Composers/Musicians​: Navid Azeez, Jeff Raab, Rachel Felstein”