Much Ado About Nothing at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Meet Beatrice and Benedick, two ferociously independent individuals who have steadfastly avoided sharing their lives with anyone but themselves. She's a fiercely independent woman who answers to no man. He's an avowed bachelor with no plans to settle down. Despite their best efforts to remain single and their reputation for trading barbs rather than sweet nothings, falling for one another becomes inevitable when these stubborn singles finally meet their match under the sultry Sicilian sun. What follows is a dazzling display of linguistic fireworks and a hilarious battle of wits that has delighted audiences for over four centuries.The production has already garnered significant attention from the media, with Better Magazine, the Daily Herald, and Rebellious Magazine naming "Much Ado About Nothing" as one of the must-see shows of the season. It's easy to understand why. The combination of Shakespeare at his very best, a talented ensemble cast, and the warm-hearted setting of romantic Italy creates the perfect theatrical experience just in time for the holidays.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater has assembled an exceptional cast for this production. Leading the company are Deborah Hay as Beatrice and Craig Bierko as Benedick. Hay returns to CST after previous appearances in "As You Like It" and "The School for Lies," bringing with her extensive classical theater experience from nine seasons at the Shaw Festival and seven at the Stratford Festival. Bierko makes his Chicago Shakespeare debut fresh from Broadway, where his credits include "The Music Man" (earning him a Tony Award nomination), "Guys and Dolls," "Matilda the Musical," and "Girl from the North Country."
The talented ensemble also features a mix of CST veterans and exciting newcomers, including Debo Balogun, Mark Bedard, Joey Chelius, Sean Fortunato, Kevin Gudahl, Suzanne Hannau, Colin Huerta, Samuel B. Jackson, Mi Kang, Jaylon Muchison, Felicia Oduh, Yona Moises Olivares, Jeff Parker, and Tiffany Scott.
At the helm is acclaimed director Selina Cadell, whose return to Chicago Shakespeare is cause for celebration in itself. Cadell directed the theater's groundbreaking production of "Hamlet" starring Eddie Izzard, which broke box office records at CST and in theaters around the world. Her impressive directorial portfolio includes work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, West End productions, and various London theaters. As both a director and actress, Cadell brings a deep understanding of Shakespeare's text and a proven ability to make classical works feel fresh and accessible to modern audiences.
Set against the backdrop of the Italian countryside, this production promises to transport audiences on a theatrical holiday, offering warmth and romance during the winter season. The Jentes Family Courtyard Theater provides an intimate setting that allows audiences to feel fully immersed in the action, bringing them closer to Shakespeare's witty dialogue and the characters' emotional journeys.
"Much Ado About Nothing" is fundamentally a warm-hearted ode to the power of love and the joy of partnership. While Beatrice and Benedick's sharp-tongued sparring provides the comedy, the play also features the sweeter romance of young lovers Claudio and Hero, whose relationship faces its own challenges. The interweaving of these two couples' stories, combined with schemes, misunderstandings, and eventual reconciliations, creates a rich tapestry that explores how love can surprise us when we least expect it.
For those seeking a perfect theatrical outing this holiday season, "Much Ado About Nothing" offers everything you could want: Shakespeare's sharpest wit, a love story that feels both timeless and contemporary, a world-class production team, and talented performers bringing these beloved characters to life. Whether you're a longtime Shakespeare enthusiast or new to his works, this production promises an evening of laughter, romance, and theatrical magic.
"Much Ado About Nothing" plays at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier from November 18 through December 21.