The Faith American Brewing Company and Kelsey Grammer production of Much Ado About Nothing, directed by Thomas G. Waites, extends until Sunday, July 7 at The Gene Frankel Theatre in NoHo.
The cast of up-and-comers in the theater world are from Waites’ TGW studio. Grammer and Waites have been friends for over fifty years. They met when they were young actors starting out at Julliard. Grammer wanted to help champion the production so young actors could get some much-needed stage time.Waites, who in addition to acting and directing, also teaches, saw opportunities for his students to hone their craft onstage dwindle after Covid. In an attempt to get their work seen by a wider audience and to help give them the experience of working in front of an audience, Waites was inspired to produce the play, which Grammer readily backed.
The production is a reimagined take on Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy. Set in 1940’s Italy, the play—a feel-good comedy about honor, love, sex and just plain fun—features hot Italian lovers, quick-witted rivals, masquerade balls and unruly gossip. The production also has original music and score by Cedric Allen Hills. According to Grammer, “Much Ado About Nothing is a delightful romp. I have no doubt that this production will be a special and unique experience for all involved!”
Several roles are shared between a rotating cast of actors including Aislinn Evans and Kaitlyn Mitchell as Beatrice, Artur Ignatenko and Jake Minevich as Benedick and Jordan Elizabeth Gelber and Stephanie Londoño as Hero. In addition, the cast features Dillon John Collins (Claudio), Jacque Coqueran (Don Pedro), David Manganiello (Leonato), Surge (Don John), Daniela Paiewonsky (Margaret), Matt Ugly McGlade (Borachio and Ursula), Arnie Mazur (Dogberry), John Galligan (Verges), Luis Guillen (Antonio and Sexton), Brandon Thomas Lima (Conrade) and Cedric Allen Hills (Balthazar).
Performances run until July 7 with performances Wednesday to Saturday at 8 PM and Sundays at 3 PM (no performance on July 4) Running time: 2 hours (including intermission).
Tickets are $25 (seniors), $35 (general admission) and are available here.
The Gene Frankel Theatre is located at 24 Bond Street (Between Lafayette & Bowery), New York, NY
