Much Ado About Nothing

Like the Davis Shakespeare Festival, the 49th annual Sacramento Shakespeare Festival is opening with the same play, Much Ado About Nothing. The SSF version is a comedy with a bit of villainy, set in post-World War I England.

Unfortunately, that means that male performers are in what must be terribly hot British Army uniforms. Fortunately, that didn't seem to inhibit the fun, even as temperatures were edging toward the triple digits.

Any production of Much Ado relies on the chops of the actors playing the sharp-tongued, sharp-witted Beatrice and Benedick, well-played here by Jackie Gailbreath and Russell Dow, respectively. Their chemistry—they are obviously having a very good time—and willingness to hide behind very small potted plants makes for some outrageously funny bits.

The more serious—and seriously star-crossed—lovers, Hero (Brittany King) and Claudio (Tim Brown) are overwhelmingly earnest, while Don Pedro (Thomas Dean) and Leonato (James Roberts) are suitably upright. But as the villainous Don Joan (Don Pedro's bastard sister, rather than the traditional brother), Samia LaVirgne dominates every scene she's in.

This production, directed by Lori Ann Delappe-Grondin, also has a live musical ensemble, which adds some depth and texture to the play. Costume designer Nicole Sivell has done some excellent work, especially with the women's colorful dresses, adding a lightness to the group scenes.

Even in hot weather, there's a light breeze off the pond, and much of the amphitheater is shady. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, a cooler with dinner and drinks, and expect a relaxing and fun evening. Much Ado About Nothing will play in repertory with The Three Musketeers, which opens this weekend.