Messina 3004 presented by Otherworld Theatre at Mary's Attic

Chicago Stage and Screen - Somewhat Recommended

"...The challenges of adapting Shakespeare are twofold: 1. Paring down the text to create a leaner, more concise story without eliminating any important plot details that make it make sense. 2. Applying a unique concept or take on the story that fits with the given details of the text and, if you're really good, bolsters the important storylines. Otherworld Theatre's Messina 3004, a sci-fi adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing adapted and directed by Mary-Kate Arnold, conquers one challenge effortlessly while falling woefully short on the other."

Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended

"...Messina 3004 is ambitious, colorful, energetic, athletic, sexy, and manages to achieve all of this in a brisk 90 minutes. I’m not familiar enough with Shakespeare’s original text to know precisely how much gets cut and altered, but Arnold’s adaptation stays true to the spirit of the original while putting a very distinctive stamp upon it. You don’t need to love Shakespearean comedies nor science fiction to enjoy Messina 3004; just bring your love of unique theatrical experiences."