Lakeland University’s fall play “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again]” is hitting the stage with fast-paced comedy, clever props and nonstop laughs. The show condenses all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays into just 97 minutes, blending sword fights, quick changes and witty physical comedy that entertains both Shakespeare fans and newcomers.
Junior Max Wheeler, who plays Daniel, a supporting role, said his favorite part is “acting like a doofus” which always gets him laughing during rehearsals. “It’s one of the funniest, quickest plays I’ve ever been in,” he said. “You have to keep up or you’ll get left behind, but that’s part of the fun.”
Sophomore Nailah Jones said the cast and crew make every rehearsal enjoyable. “The energy in this group is amazing,” she said. “Even when we mess up, it’s never embarrassing because everyone supports each other.” She added that props and costumes make scenes even funnier. “When you add in a sword fight or a silly hat, the scene just explodes with laughter.”
Junior Taylor Stoelb shared that being part of the production has been “so much fun,” thanks to the cast’s humor and friendship. “The script leaves lots of room for us to interject our own shenanigans,” Stoelb said. “Getting the timing down has been challenging because everything moves so fast. I hope the audience has fun, participates and laughs as much as we do in rehearsals.”
Originally created in 1987 by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, the play became a worldwide phenomenon and London’s longest-running comedy. This revised version adds more diversity and inclusivity while keeping the humor and energy that audiences love.
Show dates are Thursday, Nov. 13, through Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Bradley Theater. Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for seniors and non-Lakeland students under 18, and Lakeland students get one free ticket. Faculty and staff receive two free tickets each. Tickets are available at the box office or at Will Call one hour before showtime.
With clever comedy, energetic performances and a whirlwind of Shakespearean chaos, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
