Fans of the Bard will be pleased to know that Dubai Opera will be hosting its second Shakespearean theatre production this year, as Much Ado About Nothing heads to the UAE stage from September 25-28.
Written in the late 1500s, around the same time as As You Like It and Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing is widely regarded as one of Shakespeare's best comedies.
It tells the tale of Beatrice and Benedick, who everyone knows are the perfect couple – except them, as they aim to outwit one another at every opportunity. But, as Claudio and Hero tie the knot, a hilarious battle to bring the pair together ensues. Not before Don John attempts to thwart the nuptials, though.
'Shakespeare’s words speak to everyone'
The UAE play will be performed by the New England Shakespeare Company, which takes the celebrated playwright’s works to the world and gives them a modern, musical twist. It’s produced by Jamie Hendry and directed by Derek Bond, an award-winning British theatre director.
“The world is an increasingly fractured place to live in right now, and Britain’s place within it is under the spotlight," says Hendry. "Shakespeare’s words speak to everyone, and our mission is to help his plays sing out loud and clear to the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere in productions that are bold, lively, relevant, meaningful and, above all, entertaining.”
Dubai Opera’s chief executive, Jasper Hope, adds: "Featuring a global cast and set in Messina, this production examines passion, joy, honour and desire and is a story filled with laughter and music throughout.”
Tickets are already on sale at www.dubaiopera.com, with prices starting from Dh150.
An early bird discount of 20 per cent off VIP and Platinum seats is available until May 12.
Other gigs and performances coming up at Dubai Opera include a night with British comedian Alan Davies, a concert by French band Nouvelle Vague, Puccini's Turandot Opera, The Phantom of the Opera, The Nutcracker and Handel's Messiah.
