CSC artistic director Steven Maler directs the work set for a July 10-Aug. 1, 2004 run on Boston Common.

"The free, annual presentations of Shakespeare on Boston Common are a great example of the rich cultural life in our city," stated Mayor Thomas Menino in a release. "Much Ado About Nothing will play while Boston is in the national spotlight„ with the Democratic National Convention in town„a great time to show off our assets to the rest of the world. The production will be a terrific centerpiece for Boston."

The Wang Center for the Performing Arts and the Poduska Family Foundation present the work. The staging marks the ninth annual "Free Shakespeare on the Common" production. Performances take place at the Parkman Bandstand in Boston Common.

Past CSC presentations have included Macbeth starring Jay O. Sanders, Henry V starring Anthony Rapp, Twelfth Night, The Tempest, Julius Caesar, As You Like It and Romeo and Juliet. CSC's inaugural 1996 production, A Midsummer Night’s Dream was staged at Copley Square.

For more information, call (617) 532-1212. Also visit www.commonwealthshakespeare.org.