The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse is almost a week into its summer season, with performances of The Merchant of Venice just underway and running through June 19. But there’s more.First, some details. The Tavern, as the Midtown theater/pub is commonly known, has shortened its name by one word: Henceforth, the New American Shakespeare Tavern shall be known as the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse. (You can still call it the Tavern or Shakespeare Tavern, if you wish. No one will toss you out.)
The Tavern still offers a full pub menu, a full bar in the lobby and beer and soft drinks inside the theater space. Here’s how the rest of the summer shapes up for the 32-year-old company:
The Taming of the Shrew
JUNE 23-JULY 10. Dani Herd and Matt Nitchie play the famously battling Kate and Petruchio in this comedy that became the basis for the Cole Porter musical Kiss Me, Kate. The question: Can Petruchio tame his Kate, turning the “shrew” into a doting wife, or will the lady hold fast to her wild, independent ways? June 23 is a $15 preview. July 1 show sold out. Directed by artistic director Jeffrey Watkins.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
JULY 14-AUG. 7. Jeremiah Parker Hobbs is Puck in this telling of the fairy-filled romp through the woods. Expect comedic stylings and clowning actors, as directed by company regular Matt Felten. $15 preview July 14; $20 preview July 15.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)
AUG. 11-SEPT. 4. Hobbs, Vinnie Mascola and Adam King make a madcap sprint through the Shakespeare canon. Laugh-out-loud funny is the order of the day. Company regular Nicholas Faircloth directs. $15 preview Aug. 11.
Tavern tickets are regularly $15-$39, with show times at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Details and tickets HERE.
