Category Archives: Press Releases

Cincinnati Opera and CCM to Workshop LALOVAVI, the New Opera-in-Progress by Kevin Day and Tifara Brown, Featuring a Free Public Performance of Excerpts on May 13

The workshop precedes the world premiere of LALOVAVI at Cincinnati Opera in 2025, the first work in the company’s groundbreaking creative initiative, The Black Opera Project

LALOVAVI Creative TeamCO_The Black Opera Project


CINCINNATI (March 7, 2024)—Cincinnati Opera and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) have announced the next opera to be workshopped through their joint program, Opera Fusion: New Works (OF:NW): Lalovavi, with music by Kevin Day, libretto by Tifara Brown, and stage direction and dramaturgy by Kimille Howard.

Commissioned by Cincinnati Opera and slated for a 2025 world premiere, Lalovavi is anticipated to be the first grand opera on an Afrofuturist theme. Set in the future, the opera follows the journey of Persephone, the youngest teenage daughter of the Primus of Atlas, formerly the city of Atlanta. Currency and status in Atlas are determined based on the presence of Syndicus, a rare gene that promotes vitality and longevity. When Persephone is found to possess this gene, she is betrayed by her family and must run for her life. She is thrust into an epic adventure, uncovering a hidden past that leads her to discover love’s true meaning and the power to determine her own destiny.

Lalovavi will be the first opera to be presented as part of The Black Opera Project, Cincinnati Opera’s groundbreaking, three-opera commissioning initiative that engages Black creators to develop new works celebrating Black stories. The first program of its kind, The Black Opera Project seeks to illuminate the resilient spirit and vibrant heritage of the Black American experience.

Opera Fusion: New Works (OF:NW) is co-directed by Robin Guarino, professor of opera at CCM, and Evans Mirageas, The Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director of Cincinnati Opera, and provides composers and librettists the opportunity to collaborate with singers and creative personnel to refine their operas-in-progress. During the May workshop for Lalovavi, Day, Brown, and Howard will work alongside conductor Kevin Miller and a cast of singers to further develop the work.

A public performance of excerpts from Lalovavi will take place on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. (ET) at Cincinnati Music Hall’s Wilks Studio (1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202). Admission to the public performance is free, though seating is limited and reservations are required. Reservations are available by calling 513-241-2742 or visiting cincinnatiopera.org.

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About Opera Fusion: New Works
Funded through a generous gift from the Mellon Foundation, Opera Fusion: New Works (OF:NW) is a partnership between Cincinnati Opera and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) dedicated to fostering the development of new American operas. This collaboration is jointly led by Robin Guarino, professor of opera at CCM, and Evans Mirageas, The Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director of Cincinnati Opera. OF:NW offers composers or composer/librettist teams the opportunity to workshop an opera during a residency in Cincinnati. Residencies utilize the facilities, personnel, and talent of both Cincinnati Opera and CCM. The workshops are cast with a combination of CCM students and professional artists, and each workshop concludes with a free public presentation of excerpts followed by an audience Q&A session. For more information, visit ofnw.org.

About CCM
Nationally ranked and internationally renowned, the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) is a preeminent institution for the performing and media arts. The school’s educational roots date back to 1867, and a solid, visionary instruction has been at its core since that time. CCM offers nine degree types (BA, BM, BFA, MFA, MM, MA, AD, DMA, PhD) in nearly 120 possible majors, along with a wide variety of pre-collegiate and post-graduate programs.

Declared a top college vocal program by Backstage Magazine and described as “one of the continent’s major music schools,” by the Toronto Star, CCM’s Departments of Opera and Voice provide one of the most comprehensive training programs for opera singers, coaches, and directors in the United States. CCM offers an international faculty of dedicated educators who are also celebrated professionals in their own right, widely and currently active in their respective fields. Several national opera companies hold auditions at the conservatory, and CCM students frequently advance to the final rounds of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. CCM graduates have performed on the stages of the world’s greatest opera companies, including Cincinnati Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, San Francisco Opera, Royal Opera (London), La Scala (Italy), and more. CCM Voice and Opera program support is provided by the Mellon Foundation for Opera Fusion: New Works, The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, and the Patricia A. Corbett Estate. Additional support for CCM’s undergraduate opera productions is provided by Rafael and Kimberly de Acha. To learn more, visit ccm.uc.edu.

About Cincinnati Opera
Cincinnati Opera’s mission is to enrich and connect our community through diverse opera experiences. Founded in 1920 and the second-oldest opera company in the nation, Cincinnati Opera presents a thrilling season of grand opera every summer and engaging programs throughout the year. The company’s repertoire includes beloved classics and contemporary masterworks brought to life by some of the world’s most dynamic performers and creative artists.

Cincinnati Opera is supported by the generosity of tens of thousands of contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. This project was supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts. Opera Fusion: New Works and The Black Opera Project receive generous funding from the Mellon Foundation. Lead funder for Lalovavi is the David C. Herriman Fund of Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Cincinnati Opera also receives general season support from The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, Patricia A. Corbett Estate and Trust, and the Harry T. Wilks Family Foundation, along with general season and project support from many other generous individuals, corporations, and foundations. Cincinnati Opera is a proud member of OPERA America. Learn more at cincinnatiopera.org.

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Cincinnati Shakespeare Company Unveils a Spectacular 2024-2025 Lineup at The Otto M. Budig Theater

CSC_logoThe 2024-2025 Season includes three world premieres- including a new musical- alongside celebrated classics offering a season that blends tradition with innovation and collaboration

CINCINNATI (March 6, 2024)– Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) is pleased to announce the titles of their 2024-2025 Season. This season showcases a thrilling blend of classic and contemporary theatre. It is marked by world premieres, regional debuts, and fresh international collaborations underscoring the company’s commitment to present World Class Theater in Cincinnati and beyond!

To kick off the season, CSC is thrilled to announce the world premiere of “Kindred Spirits” by Alice Scovell, based on the characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit,” running from August 2-18, 2024. This captivating sequel to Noël Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” promises to enchant audiences with a blend of romance, jealousy, and spectral hilarity. Scovell, known for her successful off-Broadway hit “The Rewards of Being Frank” which debuted at Cincinnati Shakespeare in 2023, masterfully revives Coward’s beloved characters, introducing audiences to both familiar faces and intriguing new spirits.  Producing Artistic Director, Brian Isaac Phillips expressed his excitement, “We are thrilled to bring the work of Alice Scovell to our stage once again. Her talent in continuing the stories of beloved classic plays like ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ and now ‘Blithe Spirit’ is a favorite of our audience. ‘Kindred Spirits’ is the perfect way to kick off our season and is a must-see for our subscribers and patrons.” This production, included in the subscription package, is a testament to the Company’s commitment to presenting fresh, innovative takes on classic stories, promising a delightful experience for theatergoers this summer.

In September, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is set to present “Fat Ham” by James Ijames, from September 6-22, 2024. This innovative reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” infuses the classic tale with a contemporary flair. Described by the New York Times as “a hilarious yet profound tragedy smothered in comedy,” this Pulitzer Prize winning and Tony nominated play serves up a feast of drama, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and power dynamics. Directed by Darnell Pierre Benjamin, a frequent performer at Cincinnati Shakespeare and the director of the 2021 production of “Romeo and Juliet,” “Fat Ham” promises to reignite the infamous tale of “Hamlet” with a modern twist. This fresh and spicy reinterpretation of a Shakespearean masterpiece is an exciting addition to the Company’s season, offering a unique and thought-provoking theatrical experience. “Fat Ham” is generously sponsored by Fifth Third Bank and by President H. James Williams and First Lady Carole Campbell Williams of Mount St. Joseph University.

This Halloween season, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to present “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” by David Catlin, from October 9- November 2, 2024. This production, presented in partnership with Merrimack Repertory Theatre in Lowell, MA, follows the successful 2023 collaboration on the World Premiere of Patrick Hamilton’s “Gaslight” in a new version for the stage by Steven Dietz. “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” premiered at Lookingglass Theatre Company in Chicago in May of 2019, and offers a new spin on the gothic tale, exploring the journey of Victor Frankenstein’s creation, a creature shunned and feared for its inhumanity. The play delves deep into themes of creation, rejection, and the nature of humanity, asking the audience who the real monster is – the creature or its creator.  Producing Artistic Director Brian Isaac Phillips leads this spine-tingling adaptation perfect for the Halloween season that blurs the lines between horror and science fiction.  Brian expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “It is wonderful to collaborate with the talented folks at Merrimack Rep again. Collaborations like these are vital now more than ever, and we are happy to have found such a great partner theater in MRT.” After its run in Cincinnati, “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” will move to Merrimack Repertory Theatre near Boston, marking another successful regional transfer of work for CSC.

This holiday season, CSC is delighted to offer two joyous productions, perfect for families, dates, and friends looking for festive entertainment.  First up, from November 15- December 7, 2024, is William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” This delightful comedy of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements is a family-friendly spectacle that promises laughter and joy for all.  With its vibrant cast of characters, the play is a merry dance of romance, comedy, and playful deception. Presented in classic Elizabethan style, “Twelfth Night” is a fun and laugh-filled option for those seeking a joyful night out. This production will be co-directed by Brian Isaac Phillips and Jeremy Dubin.

In CSC’s first international collaboration, this production is presented in partnership with the Prague Shakespeare Company (PSC), the professional English language theatre of the Czech Republic, celebrating its 17th year in 2024. They present professional theatre productions, workshops, classes, lectures and other theatrical events in the Czech Republic by a diverse multinational ensemble of professional theatre artists.  Guy Roberts is the Founder and Artistic Director of Prague Shakespeare Company.  He has produced, directed and acted in over 300 productions and his work has been experienced onstage in the United States, Czech Republic, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Poland, Qatar, Egypt, and India.  Brian said, “The collaboration with PSC adds an exciting dimension to the play, and following its run in Cincinnati, “Twelfth Night” will travel to Prague for additional performances, marking CSC’s first international collaboration!”

Following “Twelfth Night,” from December 13 to 29, 2024, CSC brings back its holiday smash hit, “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez, again directed by Jeremy Dubin. This production begins as a traditional rendition of “A Christmas Carol” but quickly evolves into a slightly irreverent look at all of our favorite “Beloved Holiday Classics,” including pop culture favorites like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Rudolph,” “Charlie Brown,” and more. This show, which has been a CSC staple for 19 seasons, consistently breaks box office records, attracting new and returning audiences alike. Offering a night of holiday hilarity, this show is best enjoyed by adults and families with older teens. It presents a slightly irreverent and humorous take on holiday classics, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional holiday fare. Please note, it may not be suitable for younger audiences who still cherish the traditional beliefs around Santa Claus.  Both “Twelfth Night” and “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, offering diverse and entertaining options for all.

Kicking off 2025, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is set to enthrall audiences with the world premiere of “A Room in the Castle,” based on the women of “Hamlet,” by Lauren Gunderson. It is a retelling of “Hamlet” from the perspectives of Ophelia and Gertrude. Commissioned by CSC back in 2020 and penned by the acclaimed Lauren Gunderson, this production promises a fresh and compelling narrative on a classic play. Lauren says, “I’m terrifically excited to finally bring ‘A Room in the Castle’ to Cincy Shakes. Since they boldly commissioned the idea years ago, I’ve been filled with gratitude and eagerness to tell this untold part of the most iconic Shakespearean play, and bring the women of ‘Hamlet’ out from the shadows and into their own truths. What a gift to be trusted, commissioned and – now – produced at Cincinnati Shakespeare!”  Lauren has been one of the most produced playwrights in America since 2015. She is a two-time winner of the Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award, the winner of the Lanford Wilson Award, and a finalist for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize.  Running from January 24- February 9, 2025, “A Room in the Castle” intertwines themes of love, intrigue, and power, exploring the emotional journey and resilience of its central female characters amidst the chaos of the Danish court. This groundbreaking production, symbolizing a significant collaborative effort, is produced in partnership with the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington D.C. Following its premiere in Cincinnati, the play will move to Washington D.C., a milestone marking CSC’s first expansion into the D.C. area. “A Room in the Castle” challenges audiences to ponder whether Ophelia and Gertrude’s fates will align with Shakespeare’s original or break free towards a path of liberation, showcasing CSC’s dedication to innovative storytelling and diverse narratives of classic Shakespeare plays.

In the spring of 2025, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company brings to the stage two Shakespeare classics. First up is “Macbeth,” running from February 28 – March 23, 2025. This contemporary production delves deep into the themes of ambition and political intrigue.  This production will be directed by Christopher V. Edwards who also led a powerful and modern “Othello” at CSC in the Debut season of The Otto M. Budig Theater and a moving production of August Wilson’s “Fences” at CSC in 2019.   He is currently the Artistic Director of Actors’ Shakespeare Project in Boston and has worked as a director and actor in London’s West End, Off-Broadway, Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Cleveland Playhouse, The NY Hip-Hop Theatre Festival, Utah Shakespeare Festival, SOHO Rep, Penumbra Theater, PA Shakes, Shakespeare and Company and Guthrie Theatre to name a few.  This modern tale of mayhem and madness, where reality and the supernatural blur, will be a gripping theatrical experience.

Following “Macbeth,” Cincinnati Shakespeare Company presents “The Tempest” from April 11- May 4, 2025. Set on an ecologically fragile isle, the play will transport audiences to a world where enchantment and reality intertwine.  “The Tempest” will also be a green, low environmental impact production, where sustainability meets Shakespeare in a harmonious blend of environmental responsibility and theatrical mastery.  This production will directed by CSC’s Candice Handy, known for her recent direction at CSC of James Baldwin’s “The Amen Corner” in 2024 and August Wilson’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” in 2021.  Audiences will be treated to a romantic tale filled with magic, monsters, and redemption presented in a sustainable way!

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024-2025 season closes with the highly anticipated world premiere of the season, “Mrs. Dalloway,” A New Musical.  This vibrant musical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel, featuring book, music, and lyrics by Lindsey Augusta Mercer, will run from May 23- June 15, 2025. Set in 1923, amidst the aftermath of a pandemic and WWI, the musical follows Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for the most extravagant party London has ever seen. As she navigates last-minute preparations and unexpected reunions, Clarissa confronts her past, rekindling connections and awakening long-suppressed desires. This world premiere, commissioned by CSC in 2020, is a queer-forward exploration of Woolf’s novel, examining the unspoken emotions and paths untaken in life. The production boasts a neo-golden age score with contemporary folk-pop influences.  Writer and composer Lindsey Augusta Mercer says, “My creative lens on ‘Mrs. Dalloway’ is deeply rooted in the relationships, in particular that of Clarissa and Sally, whose love is a fundamental theme that is frequently discounted.  Though the themes in the novel feel so timeless and could almost be set in any period, it was important to me to preserve the time and place of the novel within the musical adaptation as a way to reimagine an ending for our queer characters. I wanted to paint a deeply romantic and heartfelt new memory of what it could have been like.”  This production will be directed by CSC’s Sara Clark who recently directed the enchanting “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in 2023 and popular “Pride and Prejudice” in 2020 and 2022 at CSC.  Don’t miss this innovative musical adaptation that brings a fresh perspective to a timeless story and concludes CSC’s 2024-2025 Season!

An additional highlight of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024-2025 season is the unofficially titled “PROJECTHamlet.” This unique project brings Shakespeare’s renowned tragedy “Hamlet” to life in three distinct and innovative ways. First, audiences will enjoy a contemporary production of “Hamlet” as the FREE Shakespeare in the Park show, making Shakespeare’s work accessible to all. Following this, “Fat Ham” offers a modern twist on the tale, a Broadway and Pulitzer Prize-winning sensation that reimagines the story in a different world. Lastly, “A Room in the Castle,” a world premiere commissioned by CSC, tells the story from the perspective of the women in “Hamlet.” Mr. Phillips says he hopes “audiences experience all three productions, as they each provide new insights into the Danish prince and his family’s story and showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of Shakespeare’s work.”

ONLINE AUCTION:

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is also thrilled to invite patrons and enthusiasts to join in the celebration of its 2024-2025 Season Announcement through its one-of-a-kind Online Auction. The annual event always promises an array of insider experiences and exclusive items that are not available to the general public, including unique ticket packages for every show in the newly announced 2024-2025 Mainstage Season.  The 2024 Auction will take place from March 6 to March 20, allowing participants to browse, bid, and contribute to support CSC’s productions and programs. All proceeds from the auction will directly benefit Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, serving 85,000 patrons and students across the tri-state and beyond.  Development Director Sara Clarks says, “bid early, bid often, make a donation, and share the excitement on social media by mentioning @cincyshakes. Your support ensures the continuation of CSC’s mission to bring Shakespeare and the Classics to life for all.”

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company offers fantastic value to its audiences with flexible subscription packages for the 2024-2025 Season. These subscriptions include a range of options of packages with 4, 6, or 8 tickets, available at a generous 25% discount off single ticket prices. These tickets can be used in any combination across all eight mainstage performances excluding “Every Christmas Story.”  All subscriptions are currently on sale and can be purchased through the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company website at cincyshakes.com or by calling the box office at 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1.

Single tickets for all CSC shows will be available starting May 1, 2024. However, becoming a Subscriber is the recommended way to secure the best prices and priority seating now.  Single ticket prices for individual shows range from $12-$76. CSC also continues to offer discounted tickets for students, seniors, local residents, and community partners. The Access ticket program, launched in 2020, offers $14 tickets in the Upper Gallery of CSC’s mainstage, purchasable in advance online or via the box office. Additionally, CSC’s Rush Ticket program offers any unreserved tickets for $12, starting one hour before each performance available to all.  These rush tickets are subject to availability and location within the theater. Payment methods including Visa, Discover, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted, and ticketing fees apply. For ticket purchases or more information, contact the CSC Box Office at 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1, or visit cincyshakes.com.

Pictured Above:

  • Beasley as Hamlet in Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024 FREE Shakespeare in the Park tour of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” playing July 12 – September 1, 2024 in local parks.
  • Kelly Mengelkoch in the world premiere of “Kindred Spirits” by Alice Scovell, based on characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” playing August 2 – 18, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
  • Candice Handy as Maria in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” playing November 15 – December 7, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
  • Geoffrey Warren Barnes II in “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez playing December 13 – 29, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
  • Hayley Guthrie as Lady Macbeth in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”  playing February 28 – March 23, 2025 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
  • Hannah Gregory as Ariel in William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” playing April 11 – May 2025 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.

All Photos by Mikki Schaffner.

Season Designs by Lightborne.

THE 2024-2025 SEASON IS AS FOLLOWS:

William Shakespeare’s
Hamlet
FREE Shakespeare in the Park 2024
July 12-September 1, 2024
While grappling with the grief of his father’s murder, Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, is thrust into a web of deceit, betrayal, and impending war. Not only has his mother married his father’s brother, but his uncle is the murderer. This summer, become immersed in the intrigue of Shakespeare’s Hamlet— a riveting blend of passion, ghosts, and royal drama that promises to heat up your summer nights with gripping intensity.

Kindred Spirits
A New Play by Alice Scovell
Based on the characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit”
August 2-18, 2024
In this World Premiere sequel to Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit, the whimsical chaos of the spirit world collides, once again, with the realm of the living. Haunted by his past loves (literally), Charles Condomine finds it challenging to finish his latest book and pursue a beguiling love interest.  Romance, jealousy, and unexpected reunions combine for a spirited, comedic romp, filled with witty repartee and otherworldly surprises. In Kindred Spirits, Alice Scovell–the playwright behind the Oscar Wilde sequel The Rewards of Being Frank–brings back to life many of Coward’s beloved characters, and introduces a few new, memorable ones.

Fat Ham
by James Ijames
September 6-22, 2024
Weeks after his father’s funeral, Juicy, a queer Black man, finds himself at a barbeque with his family and friends. But here’s the rub: the barbeque is a wedding reception for his mother and his uncle. When the ghost of Juicy’s father appears like a specter out of the smoke, demanding vengeance for his murder, Juicy learns revenge is a dish best served “char-cold.” This sweet and spicy reimaging of Shakespeare’s Hamlet serves up a feast of drama, with loyalty, identity, and power dynamics on the menu in what the New York Times calls “a hilarious yet profound tragedy smothered in comedy.”

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
By David Catlin
October 11-November 2, 2024
On a dark and stormy night, a group of friends challenge each other to tell a frightful tale and thus Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is born.  Cast away by his creator, Victor Frankenstein’s rejected creature is thrust into a world that recoils in terror, disgusted by his inhumanity. A new spin on the gothic tale from the mother of science fiction promises to be a spine-tingling encounter with one of literature’s most iconic monsters.  Ideal for the Halloween season, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein will ask the question: who is the real monster, creature or creator?

William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
November 15-December 7, 2024
Shakespeare’s delightful comedy of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements, is a family-friendly spectacle that promises laughter and joy for all. Set in the whimsical land of Illyria, the play follows the adventures of Viola, who, disguised as a man, finds herself at the heart of a hilarious series of misunderstandings and mishaps.  With a colorful cast of characters, the play is a merry dance of romance, comedy, and playful deception perfect for audiences of all ages.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)*
by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez
December 13-29, 2024
CSC’s holiday smash hit Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) is back again for another season of holiday hilarity! What begins as another annual production of A Christmas Carol, soon devolves into a slightly irreverent look at all of our favorite “Beloved Holiday Classics” including pop culture favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, Rudolph, Charlie Brown and more! Add in topical references that always keep this annual tradition fresh and fun as we send up everything from Dickens to Dr. Seuss in an evening of high-octane jollity and frivolity.  *Not part of the mainstage subscription package.

A Room in the Castle
Based on the women of Hamlet
By Lauren M. Gunderson
January 24-February 9, 2025
In this parallel retelling of Hamlet from Ophelia and Gertrude’s perspectives, the focus shifts to their emotional journey amidst the chaos of the Danish court. Ophelia’s narrative begins with the blossoming of a secret romance with Hamlet, filled with promise and youthful passion. As the court’s intrigue deepens, Ophelia and Gertrude finds themselves ensnared in a web of political machinations and familial expectations, struggling to maintain power and agency. Will their ending be a confirmation of Shakespeare’s original or a liberation from it? Find out in the World Premiere of Lauren Gunderson’s A Room in the Castle.

William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
February 28-March 23, 2025
In this contemporary production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, ambition and political intrigue take center stage. When three witches foretell that Macbeth will ascend to the Scottish throne, he and his cunning wife craft a ruthless plot to make it so.  Their journey into darkness is a violent portrayal of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Toil and trouble boil over in this timeless tale of mayhem and madness, reimagined for today, where the lines between reality and the supernatural blur.Top of Form

William Shakespeare’s The Tempest
April 11-May 4, 2025
Marooned on an enchanting, yet ecologically fragile island, the exiled sorcerer Prospero waits, consumed by thoughts of revenge. So when fate places all his old enemies within his reach, tempests (both literal and metaphorical) stir. As the climate shifts, so do allegiances, while young love takes root in this unpredictable environment.  This romantic tale, replete with magic and monsters, love and liquor, and retribution and redemption is a voyage not to be missed.

 Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Lindsey Augusta Mercer
Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s Novel
May 23-June 15, 2025
Mrs. Dalloway hosts tonight! You’re invited to the soiree of the century: a new musical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel. It is 1923 and the pandemic and WWI have ravaged Europe, but Clarissa Dalloway is determined to throw the greatest party London has ever seen. While she buys the flowers and makes last minute preparations, serendipitous reunions force her to confront the past. As she dismantles the façade she tirelessly upholds, she rekindles connections with friends and lovers, awakening her inner desires for the words she never spoke and the paths of love she never took.  Don’t miss this World Premiere of Virginia Woolf’s iconic introspective novel reimagined for the stage as a musical with a sweeping neo-golden age score underpinned with a contemporary folk pop

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Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park Announces 2024-2025 Season Including World Premiere of Musical RUTKA on Its Journey to Broadway

PIP_Word Cloud 2024-25 Playhouse Season Show (1080x1080)CINCINNATI –Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park will stage the world premiere of RUTKA, a powerful indie rock musical on its journey to Broadway as part of its 2024-2025 season announced today. Other season highlights include regional premieres of recent Broadway and off-Broadway hits, comedy favorites and a fresh adaptation of DIAL M FOR MURDER.

“We’re thrilled to produce every one of the plays in the new season for Cincinnati audiences,” stated Blake Robison, Osborn Family Producing Artistic Director. “In particular, I want to highlight RUTKA, which uniquely fulfills a promise to our community. The production will take maximum advantage of the new capabilities in Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse Theatre, enabling the work we create to gain national attention on the industry’s largest stages.”

The 2024-2025 Season includes:

  • The world premiere of RUTKA, a powerful indie-rock musical that will start its journey to Broadway in Cincinnati as it tells a story about hope, resilience and resistance based on a real diary that a 14-year-old girl hid in the war-torn Jewish Ghetto in 1943 Poland.
  • Regional premieres of recent Broadway and off-Broadway hits, including the achingly beautiful PRIMARY TRUST, the Pulitzer Prize-winning ENGLISH and the charming BIRTHDAY CANDLES 
  • A fresh adaptation of the plot-twisting, iconic thriller DIAL M FOR MURDER, which features a clever, fast-paced new treatment that will keep you on the edge of your seat until its final moments
  • A humorous and heartfelt solo performance about a struggling actor-turned-urban public school teacher, MR. PARENT
  • The return of two comedy favorites: THE SECOND CITY returns to celebrate its 65th Anniversary with a lineup of the troupe’s most hilarious sketches and THE BOOK CLUB PLAY, a comedy by Karen Zacarías that’s become a sold-out hit at theatres across the country since its much-loved Playhouse run in 2013

2024-25 ROUSE THEATRE SEASON
Presented by Schueler Group 

DIAL M for MURDER
By Frederick Knott
Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher
Directed by Tatiana Pandiani
Co-Production with Alley Theatre in Houston, Texas
Aug. 17 – Sept. 15, 2024
Sponsored by U.S. Bank

Short description:
Murder and malice take center stage! It’s midcentury London, and Margot has ended her affair with Maxine and returned to life with her husband, Tony — or so she thinks. Tony, in fact, knows everything, and he spins a web of deception that sets into motion a series of deadly twists. This iconic thriller receives a clever and fast-paced new treatment for the stage.

One-liner:
The iconic, plot-twisting thriller about suspicion, deception and murder receives a clever new treatment for the stage.  


Będzin - Spacer śladami Rutki Laskier. Fot. Rafał Opalski

MC and Tom Brennan and The Lemmerman Family present
RUTKA: A NEW MUSICAL
Based on the diary of Rutka Laskier, as published in Rutka’s Notebook: A Voice from the Holocaust
Music and Lyrics by Jocelyn Mackenzie and Jeremy Lloyd-Styles
Book by Neena Beber
Directed by Wendy C. Goldberg
Season Sponsor of New Work: Mark and Nancy Dawes
Oct. 13 – Nov. 10, 2024

Full description:
You’ll never forget her name. A powerful indie-rock musical makes its world premiere in Cincinnati to launch its path to Broadway. Rutka’s world is consumed by the usual teen concerns, like friendships, gossip, a new haircut and the flickers of first love — all of which she documents in her diary. But the world at large is far from usual. It’s 1943 in war-torn Poland, as Rutka and her friends are trying to live life as normally as possible while confined in the Jewish Ghetto. With their futures and fates uncertain, they reach for hope, resilience and resistance. This all-new musical is a compelling drama based on Rutka’s Notebook — a publication of the real diary left behind by 14-year-old Rutka Laskier, and a shining example of how even one small voice can make a difference in the world. Rutka is brought to life by an extraordinary ensemble of young performers and with a raw and emotional sound, promising an unforgettable musical experience.

Brief description:
A powerful new indie-rock musical about teens finding hope, resilience and resistance, while grappling with life in war-torn Poland, 1943. Rutka makes its world premiere in Cincinnati, launching this unforgettable true story on its path to Broadway.


First Financial Bank presents
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
By Charles Dickens
Directed by Bridget Leak
Adapted and Originally Directed by Blake Robison
Nov. 22 – Dec. 29, 2024

Short Description:
The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion in Moe and Jack’s Place – The Rouse Theatre! Charles Dickens’ classic tale of the curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge combines with dazzling set, costume and lighting designs for a magical holiday experience!

One Liner:
The holiday story you love unfolds in spectacular fashion with dazzling set, costume and lighting designs for a magical holiday experience!


Moe and Jack Rouse and Randolph Wadsworth present
PRIMARY TRUST
By Eboni Booth
Directed by Timothy Douglas
Feb. 1 – 23, 2025

Short description:
Written with profound affection, this off-Broadway hit is an achingly beautiful tale that will restore your faith in others. Meet Kenneth, a shy, Black 38-year-old man who sells books by day and drinks mai tais with his best friend Bert by night. But when Kenneth is suddenly laid off, the walls of his life start to crumble until he finds kindness and friendship in unlikely places.

One-liner:
Written with profound affection, this recent off-Broadway hit is an achingly beautiful tale that will restore your faith in others.  


PIP_The Book Club Play

Photo of the cast from the 2013 production at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park by Sandy Underwood.

Leading Ladies presents
THE BOOK CLUB PLAY
By Karen Zacarías
Directed by Blake Robison
March 22 – April 20, 2025
Sponsored by Johnson Investment Counsel and Clark Schaefer Hackett

Short Description:
A comedy about books and the people who love them. When the members of a devoted book club become the subjects of a documentary filmmaker and accept a provocative new member, their long-standing group dynamics take a hilarious turn. A sold-out hit at theatres across the country! Sprinkled with joy and novels galore.

One-liner:
A comedy about books and the people who love them. When a book club accepts a provocative new member, long-standing relationships take a hilarious turn.  


2023-24 ROSENTHAL SHELTERHOUSE THEATRE SEASON
Presented by The Vontz Family

PIP_Mr. Parent

Maurice Emmanuel Parent in the Boston Playwright’s Theatre production of MR. PARENT. Photo by Scornavacca Photography

MR. PARENT
By Melinda Lopez with Maurice Emmanuel Parent
Conceived with and directed by Megan Sandberg-Zakian
Sept. 7 – Oct. 6, 2024
Sponsored by Digi and Mike Schueler

Short description:
You’re never too old to learn a thing or two. A struggling actor turns to teaching in an urban public school, thinking “how hard could it be?” Based on personal stories, writer-performer Maurice Emmanuel Parent takes the stage in a deeply felt, hilarious solo performance about crushingly inequitable systems, the brilliance of every kid and how we might all find the space to be ourselves.

One-liner:
A writer-performer tells real-life, personal stories about being a struggling actor-turned-urban public school teacher in a deeply felt, hilarious solo performance.


THE BEST OF THE SECOND CITY
Oct. 24 – Dec. 22, 2024

Short description:
Having sold out with every outing at the Playhouse, The Second City returns! The 65th Anniversary Tour features some of the best sketch comedy and songs from the comedy vaults, updated for the modern era. Experience some of The Second City’s newest classics, along with their trademark improvisation, performed by the next generation of comedy superstars.

One-liner:
The Second City returns to celebrate its 65th Anniversary with more laughs, more sketches and more improv performed by the next generation of comedy superstars.


ENGLISH
By Sanaz Toossi
Directed by Kimberly Senior
March 1 – 30, 2025

Short description:
The 2023 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama takes the Playhouse stage! Four Iranian adults gather to learn English. As they navigate the mechanics of the language through humor, word games and cultural touchstones like Shakira and Coca-Cola, questions about identity seep into their minds and hearts. Both touching and funny, ENGLISH offers a revelatory glimpse into the human desire to belong.

One-liner:
The 2023 Pulitzer Prize-winning play about the human desire to belong as four Iranian adults navigate the mechanics of language with humor and vulnerability.


BIRTHDAY CANDLES
By Noah Haidle
Directed by Joanie Schultz
April 19 – May 18, 2025

Short description:
The ingredients are simple — but look closer and you’ll see the essence of life itself. Every year, Ernestine bakes a cake and celebrates with her family on her birthday — a delicious ritual that unfolds onstage through glimpses of her life across 90 birthdays. BIRTHDAY CANDLES will warm the soul as it tenderly explores motherhood, family, love, loss and finding your place in the universe.

One-liner:
BIRTHDAY CANDLES will warm the soul as it tenderly explores motherhood, family, love, loss and finding your place in the universe.


2024-2025 SEASON TICKET INFORMATION

Current subscribers must renew by April 12 to save their seats or to make a request to change them. Season ticket holders enjoy exclusive benefits like the best prices, payment installments, discounted parking, and first access to A CHRISTMAS CAROL, specially designed to make the most of our enhanced theatrical capabilities in the Rouse Theatre! Purchase A CHRISTMAS CAROL with your season tickets to add the cost to your payment plan. Season ticket packages range from $105 to $625.50, depending on the seat location and the productions included. A student season ticket package is available for $15 per production.

Purchase by visiting the Playhouse website at http://www.cincyplay.com or by calling the Box Office at 513-421-3888 or 800-582-3208 toll-free in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. For TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) access, call 513-345-2248. The Playhouse is fully accessible.

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2024-2025 Season Announced by Mariemont Players

MPI_logo 2020Mariemont Players Inc. is thrilled to announce our 2024-25 season! Learn more about our season and get your tickets at mariemontplayers.com. Season subscriptions will be on sale in April (2024) and single tickets will be on sale for all 2024-25 shows in mid-June. Follow Mariemont Players Inc. on Facebook and Instagram for updates!

Mariemont Players is located in the historic Walton Creek Theatre at 4101 Walton Creek Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45227. See you at the theatre!

Clybourne Park by Bruce Norris (Dramatic Comedy)
Directed by Elizabeth Leigh Taylor
Performance dates: September 5 – 22, 2024

Clybourne Park explodes in two outrageous acts set fifty years apart. Act One takes place in 1959, as white community leaders anxiously try to stop the sale of a home to a black family. Act Two is set in the same house in the present day, as the now predominantly African-American neighborhood battles to hold its ground in the face of gentrification. Are the issues festering beneath the floorboards actually the same, fifty years on? Bruce Norris’s excruciatingly funny and squirm-inducing satire explores the fault line between race and property. Inspired by Lorraine Hansberry’s play “A Raisin in the Sun” 

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher
from the novella “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson (Thriller)
Directed by jef brown
Performance dates: October 31 – November 17, 2024

A new and shocking version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of depravity, lust, love and horror. On the fog-bound streets of Victorian-era London, Henry Jekyll’s experiments with exotic “powders and tinctures” have brought forth his other self—Edward Hyde, a sensualist and villain free to commit the sins Jekyll is too civilized to comprehend. When Hyde meets a woman who stirs his interest, Jekyll fears for her life and decides to end his experiments. But Hyde has other ideas, and so the two sides battle each other in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse to determine who shall be the master and who his slave. With multiple Hydes portrayed by members of the cast.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams (Drama)
Directed by Dee Anne Bryll
Performance dates: January 9 – 26, 2025

In a plantation house, a family celebrates the sixty-fifth birthday of Big Daddy, as they sentimentally dub him. The mood is somber, despite the festivities, because a number of evils poison the gaiety: greed, sins of the past and desperate, clawing hopes for the future spar with one another as the knowledge that Big Daddy is dying slowly makes the rounds. Maggie, Big Daddy’s daughter-in-law, wants to give him the news that she’s finally become pregnant by Big Daddy’s favorite son, Brick, but Brick won’t cooperate in Maggie’s plans and prefers to stay in a mild alcoholic haze the entire length of his visit. Maggie has her own interests at heart in wanting to become pregnant, of course, but she also wants to make amends to Brick for an error in judgment that nearly cost her her marriage. Swarming around Maggie and Brick are their intrusive, conniving relatives, all eager to see Maggie put in her place and Brick tumbled from his position of most-beloved son. By evening’s end, Maggie’s ingenuity, fortitude and passion will set things right, and Brick’s love for his father, never before expressed, will retrieve him from his path of destruction and return him, helplessly, to Maggie’s loving arms.

Ken Ludwig’s Moon Over Buffalo (Comedy/Farce)
Directed by Aaron Whitehead
Performance dates: March 6 – 23, 2025

In the madcap comedy tradition of Lend Me a Tenor, the hilarious Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s. At the moment, they’re playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York with five actors. On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom: Frank Capra is coming to town to see their matinee, and if he likes what he sees, he might cast them in his movie remake of The Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately for George and Charlotte, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, abetted by a visit from their daughter’s clueless fiancé and hilarious uncertainty about which play they’re actually performing, caused by Charlotte’s deaf, old stage-manager mother who hates every bone in George’s body.

Four Old Broads by Leslie Kimball (Comedy)
Directed by Jennifer Day
Performance dates: May 1 – 18, 2025

Retired burlesque queen Beatrice Shelton desperately needs a vacation – and NOT another trip up to Helen, Georgia to see that “precious little German village for the umpteenth time.” A Sassy Seniors Cruise through the Caribbean may be just the ticket if she can just convince her best friend, Eaddy Mae Clayton, to stop praying and go with her. Unfortunately, things have not been very pleasant at Magnolia Place Assisted Living since Nurse Pat Jones began working there. The newest resident, Imogene Fletcher, is suddenly losing her memory. Maude Jenkins is obsessed with her favorite soap opera and planning her own funeral. Sam Smith, retired Elvis impersonator, keeps trying to bed every woman in the building. A mystery unfolds with laughter as the gals try to outsmart the evil Nurse Pat Jones and figure out why so many residents have been moved to “the dark side,” what exactly IS that mysterious pill, and what happened to Doctor Head? Hilarity ensues as Imogene goes undercover and Maude enters the Miss Magnolia Senior Citizen Pageant to throw Pat off their trail. If they can solve the mystery, they may make it to the cruise ship after all.

The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window by Lorraine Hansberry (Dramatic Comedy)
Directed by David Derringer
Performance dates: July 10 – 27, 2025

Lorraine Hansberry’s second Broadway play is the probing, hilarious and provocative story of Sidney, a disenchanted Greenwich Village intellectual, his wife Iris, an aspiring actress, and their colorful circle of friends and relations. Set against the turmoil of a stormy 1964 political campaign, the play follows its characters in their unorthodox quests for meaningful lives in an age of corruption, alienation and cynicism. With compassion, humor and poignancy, the author examines questions of morality, ethics, interracial relationships, drugs, rebellion, conformity, global responsibility and the fragility of love.

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Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s JULIUS CAESAR Takes a Captivating Turn with Roman Mafia Intrigue

CSC_Julius Caesar

Barry Mulholland as Julius Caesar

This unique production is presented in-the-round, features a full cast of 14, embraces a distinct Roman mob aesthetic, and even includes a performance on the Ides of March complete with a Togas and Tarot Night

Cincinnati, February 29, 2024 – Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to present a groundbreaking rendition of William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” set against the enthralling backdrop of the Roman Mafia. This innovative production directed by CSC’s Producing Artistic Director, Brian Isaac Phillips, promises to captivate audiences with a fresh take on power, betrayal, and loyalty, blending the iconic story with the high-stakes drama of organized crime. The production opens Friday, March 1 and runs through the 24th.  This production’s presenting sponsors are Monteverdi Tuscany and Blank Rome.  The design sponsors are Rance and Marilyn Duke, and Marcie and Jim Kinney.

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. The cutthroat world of Roman politics is exposed when the ambitious, yet oblivious, Julius Caesar becomes the target for assassination. To add insult to injury, it’s his trusted associates who are conspiring. Their actions set off a chain of events, plunging Rome into a civil war. Taking a contemporary view of this ferocious tale of power and loyalty, these infamous characters face the consequences of betrayal and the brutal nature of tyranny.

The talented cast of CSC fan-favorites brings Shakespeare’s characters to life with a modern twist. Barry Mulholland takes the stage as Julius Caesar, while Candice Handy and Sean Hagerty play Caesar’s conspirers Cassius and Brutus, respectively. Fellow cast mates include Geoffrey Warren Barnes II, Billy Chase, Cary Davenport, Jeremy Dubin, Warren Jackson, Courtney Lucien, Justin McCombs, Kelly Mengelkoch, Elizabeth Chinn Molloy, Ray K. Soeun, and Robert Carlton Stimmel.

Cincinnati Shakespeare’s Otto M. Budig Theater, renowned for its architectural flexibility, is thrilled to present “Julius Caesar” in an immersive in-the-round configuration, a testament to the venue’s innovative design that accommodates a variety of staging formats, including full proscenium and thrust performances. This unique setup places the audience in a 360-degree arrangement around the actors, with the action unfolding in the center, offering an unparalleled intimacy and engagement with the performance. To experience this captivating setup firsthand, audiences are encouraged to purchase seats in the Stage Gallery, promising an up-close and unforgettable experience that brings Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy to life like never before.

In a striking convergence of art and history, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s production of “Julius Caesar” will feature a special performance on the fateful Ides of March, March 15th, famously foretold in the play as the day of Caesar’s demise. To mark this momentous occasion, Cincy Shakes is excited to announce a “Togas and Tarot Night,” on March 15th inviting audience members to immerse themselves in the spirit of ancient Rome. Guests are encouraged to don their favorite togas or Roman attire and enjoy the unique opportunity to sit on stage in the Stage Gallery for a special price of $14 (if dressed up!) Additionally, the evening will be enriched with complimentary tarot card readings in the lobby, echoing the soothsayer’s mystical warning to Caesar within the play. This event promises to blend theatrical charm with the mystique of the ancient world, offering an unforgettable experience to all who attend on the Ides of March.

“Julius Caesar” designers seamlessly merge the opulence of ancient Rome with the gritty realism of the Mafia underworld. The creative team features scenic design by Charlie Calvert; lighting design by Watson; and costume design by Rainy Edwards. Properties Design is by Kara Eble Trusty; and Sound Design by Zack Bennett. Projections are designed by Robert Carlton Stimmel. Gina Cerimele-Mechley and Darnell Pierre Benjamin are the Fight Director/Aerial Lyra Coach and Choreographer, respectively, while Sarah Summerwell is the Text and Vocal Coach. Cole Sweasy is the Production Stage Manager and Shelby Scaffidi is the Assistant Stage Manager.

Director Brian Isaac Phillips has merged the classic themes of “Julius Caesar” with the gripping intensity of the Roman organized crime. The juxtaposition of these two worlds not only adds a thrilling layer to the narrative but also provides a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of power, betrayal, and loyalty. And with Cinna the Poet (Robert Carlton Stimmel) taking charge as DJ for the pre-show party, CSC creates an immersive experience that extends beyond the stage, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the fusion of Shakespearean brilliance, Mafia intrigue, and a pre-show celebration that will kick off the evening with style and flair.

“Julius Caesar” runs from March 1-24. Performances of “Julius Caesar” are on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 PM with 3 Sunday matinees on March 10, 17, and 24 at 2:00 PM. CSC offers performances with accessibility resources. The final Sunday matinee on March 24 is a Sign Language Interpreted performance and Live Audio Descriptions are available.

Tickets are on sale now. Discounts are available for students, seniors, local residents, and community partners, as access to all is important to CSC. Each performance night has a limited number of $14 “Access” tickets in the Upper Gallery.  These can be purchased in advance by going online or calling the Box Office.  And starting 1 hour before each performance, any unreserved tickets may be available as a discounted Rush Ticket to anyone, not just students. These tickets are only $12 and could be located anywhere in the house, depending on that evening’s availability. These cannot be reserved more than 1 hour before a show and must be purchased in person in the Box Office. Visa, Discover, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Ticketing fees apply.  To purchase tickets or for more information, call the CSC Box Office at 513.381.BARD (2273) ext. 1, or go online at http://www.cincyshakes.com.

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is located at The Otto M. Budig Theater at 1195 Elm Street in OTR, adjacent to Washington Park.  Many parking spaces are available on the street and in nearby lots and garages- for more information, visit http://www.otrchamber.com/pages/WheretoPark.

CSC also offers Valet Parking for every performance! Make reservations for $25 in advance when purchasing tickets, or visit www.cincyshakes.com/parking. Purchasing in advance guarantees a spot.  Valet is available right at the corner of 12th and Elm Street in front of the theater and begins approx. 1.5 hours before a performance. Cars can be picked up for up to one hour following a performance. (After one hour, you will need to arrange pick up with the valet service directly.) After purchasing, the valet will have your name on the list— it’s that easy!

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 30th Anniversary 2023-2024 Season is generously sponsored by The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr Foundation; along with our Education Season Sponsors, Debby and Jim Mason; and our Operating Support Partners, The Ohio Arts Council, The Robert and Adele Schiff Family Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, Lightborne, and the tens of thousands of people who give generously to the annual ArtsWave Campaign, the region’s primary source of arts funding.

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About Cincinnati Shakespeare Company:
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is a professional theatre company dedicated to bringing Shakespeare and the classics to life for all.  In the summer of 2017, the theater relocated to the Otto M. Budig Theater, a brand new facility in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati. CSC’s repertoire is composed of the works of William Shakespeare, literary adaptations, world premieres, and contemporary classics. CSC performs on a Small Professional Theatre contract with the Actors’ Equity Association. Cincinnati Shakespeare is a member of Theater Communications Group and Shakespeare Theatre Association. Each year, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Education and Outreach Programs reach more than 50,000 young people and community members by meeting audiences where they are. This includes sharing programming in schools, parks, community centers and hosting educational matinees of mainstage productions. In 2015, CSC was proud to become one of the first five theaters in the United States to “Complete the Canon” by producing all 38 plays by William Shakespeare. CSC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible.  Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to be Cincinnati’s stage for the Classics!

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