The Vagabond Players have stepped out of their comfort zone for their new spring production.
Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) opened April 3 at the Bernie Legge Theatre in Queen's Park and runs until April 19.
A press release from the group notes that audiences at the preview raved about the production, which is being described as "exceptionally well acted and visually appealing."
Ann-Marie MacDonald's play takes a comedic romp through the world of Shakespeare, following the story of Constance Ledbelly, a modern-day academic who finds herself transported to the worlds of Othello and Romeo and Juliet.
"Karryn Ransom is outstanding as Constance Ledbelly, the transported academic, and her bravura performance is something that every theatre lover should put on their must-see list," the release says.
She's supported by a cast of actors who throw themselves into various Shakespeare roles.
Among them are Chris Fofonoff, who is described as a "deliciously flamboyant" Othello and then returns as Juliet's nurse.
Rose MacNeil offers up a "magnificent Amazonian" Desdemona, then flings herself into playing the impetuous Mercutio.
Kurtis Maguire brings "dash and vitality" to the part of Tybalt and romps through the role of a knowing ghost who helps Constance.
"Alex Ross delivers a wonderfully sinister performance as the scheming Iago, and Boris Bilic and Carly June Friesen provide tremendous fun as Romeo and Juliet, saved from calamity and forced to live with each other when they are far more interested in finding new adventures," the release notes.
The play has won many awards, including the Governor General's Award, and it demands top-notch work from both the performers and the technical team - led by lighting and set designer Matt Davenport.
The production is directed by Michael Parker.
Shows are on Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., until April 19.
The Bernie Legge Theatre is in Queen's Park (behind the Arenex).
Tickets are $15, or $13 for seniors and students. Call 604-521-0412 to reserve.
After its run at the Bernie Legge, the Vagabond Players are taking the production to the Theatre B.C. Greater Vancouver Zone Festival at the Metro Theatre on May 4.
