The Hilo Community Players are romping through all of William Shakespeares’ plays in a fast-paced, hilarious fashion over the next four weeks.
The 47th Annual Shakespeare in the Park is a little different this year with the production of “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged).” Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, the performance aims to create a new experience with Shakespeare’s work through modern, satirical storytelling.
After directing the play once before for the Waimea Community Theater, Sarah Elliot was excited to take on the challenge again with a small crew and four main actors — Sean Douglas, Wilfred Gee, Saul Rollason and Theon Weber.
“We wanted to do something a little easier this year, something that would require fewer actors and a simpler set,” Elliot said. “When the name of this play came up, I jumped to do it again. I love the show, and I think it’s something that can be enjoyed by anyone.”
The four seasoned actors will condense all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays through physical comedy, improvisation, breaking the “fourth wall” and audience participation while still using the traditional Shakespearean language throughout the show.
“There was so much community talent during auditions and a good cast makes my job much easier. There are so many lines and things to do, and they’ve picked it up quickly since they’re pros,” Elliot said. “I made a lot of the props, which was more of an interesting task since I don’t craft much. Luckily, it works for this show since it’s slapstick and goofy.
“It’s been a lot of work, but thankfully the end result will be these guys being hilarious on stage,” she continued.
The first three performance are at 7:30 tonight and Saturday at the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center lawn, and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.
Subsequent performances will take place the following three weeks at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2:30 p.m. Sundays through July 28.
In addition, there will be three weekend of performances at the Honoka’a Sports Complex on Friday, Aug. 2, to Sunday, Aug. 4, with the same showtimes.
The annual Kid-Shakes production also will begin this weekend with the fun, engaging production of “Shakespeare Shorts,” which features keiki, teen and adult performers.
Directed by Alya-Joy Kanehailua and Dane Dupre, the show offers a series of captivating, bite-sized performances of some of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays.
The family-friendly adaptations are perfect for introducing younger audiences to Shakespeare’s timeless tales, making it an ideal outing for families and enthusiasts alike.
The Kid-Shakes production will run for three weekends from Saturday, July 13, to Sunday, July 28, at the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center lawn, with showtimes at 4 p.m. Saturdays and 5 p.m. Sundays.
Audiences are encouraged to bring their own seating — such as mats, blankets and chairs — to enjoy the performances comfortably. For help with accommodations due to disability, contact the Players five days prior to the event at hilocommunityplayers@gmail.com.
Admission for both productions is free, but any donations go to support future productions and community programs through the Hilo Community Players. For more information about theatrical productions and arts education opportunities, visit hiloplayers.org.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com.