With a cast of Brazilian TV and theatre stars, Shakespeare's romantic comedy Twelfth Night opens Oct. 9 at The Bank of Brazil Cultural Center Theatre I in Rio de Janeiro. Directed by Amir Haddad.

Performed in 1601 for the first time, this comedy involves misplaced love, mistaken identities and an elaborate practical joke. The play is characterized by lyricism and ambiguity, and derides the Puritanism of the time.

"When the script was written theatre was living its greatest moment," Haddad said, "but Puritanism was growing with a strong intensity. Consequently, 40 years later, all theatres were closed in England by Oliver Cromwell."

The Diva of Brazilian Theatre, Renata Sorrah, plays The Countess Olivia. Also starring Claudia Abreu as Viola, Daniel Dantas as Orsino, Pedro Cardoso as Malvolis and Tonico Pereira as Feste.

"To work with Amir Haddad is such a blessing. His ideas come to our minds very clearly" say actors Renata Sorrah and Pedro Cardoso who are playing Shakespeare's roles for the first time. Also featured is the work of Helio Eichbauer (Scenery), Biza Vianna (Set Design), Aurelio de Simoni (Lightning), and Tim Rescala (Musics).

For tickets (R$10,00) and information, call 021 216 0626 at The Bank of Brazil Cultural Center Theatre I - Rio de Janeiro.

-- By Nertutila Achao
Brazil Correspondent