Much Ado About Nothing

Students to mix comedy and 'merry war' in "Much Ado About Nothing"

OU Theatre students Lauren Knox and Jake Wood star in Much Ado About Nothing, which opens on Thursday, Feb. 2, in Varner Studio Theatre.

      Rochester, Mich. – The Oakland University Department of Music, Theatre and Dance will stage its first Shakespearean performance in eight years when students bring "Much Ado About Nothing" to life starting on Thursday, Feb. 2.

      In this classic comedy, a military war has just ended but a "merry war" between Beatrice and Benedick rages on. While the couple's friends and a blundering constable attempt to trick them into rediscovering their love for each other, the evil Don John complicates the plot with vicious lies.

      "Our 'Much Ado About Nothing' is going to be a fast-paced romp," said Assistant Professor of Theatre Lynnae Lehfeldt, who is directing the play. "It is full of romance, comedy and drama. There will be singing and dancing and it will be truly beautiful in every way."

     Shows will take place in the Varner Studio Theatre over two extended weekends, wrapping up on Sunday, Feb. 12. An 8 p.m. performance on Saturday, Feb. 11 will be shadow signed by TerpTheatre.  A 6 p.m. performance on Thursday, Feb. 9, will be part of the Thursday Arts-After-Work Series, which allows patrons to pay what they wish for admission, starting with a $1 minimum donation. All tickets to 10 a.m. matinee performances on Friday, Feb. 3, and Friday, Feb. 10, will be $8.

      Tickets for all other shows are $14 for general admission and $8 for students. For additional information or to order tickets, visit oakland.edu/tickets or call (248) 370-2030.