By Amy Lipson
19 Nov 2009

Equivocation, a new play getting a lot of attention around the nation, officially makes its Los Angeles-area premiere, opening Nov. 18 at Geffen Playhouse.

In Bill Cain's historical fiction, King James asks Shakespeare to write a history play — and the tension is high. This latest production of the regionally acclaimed play is directed and designed by David Esbjornson. The cast features Joe Spano, Harry Groener, Patrick J. Adams, Brian Henderson and Connor Trinneer, and Troian Bellisar.

According to Geffen notes, "As Equivocation's tale unwinds onstage, the actors ultimately play about two dozen roles ranging from conspirators and priests to Lady Macbeth and King Lear. The play tells the story of how King James commissions Shakespeare to write the 'true history' of England's infamous Gunpowder Plot. Yet, as Shag and his troupe begin researching the King's project, they find far more fiction than fact. With the weight of history on their shoulders, the actors struggle to dramatize the King's absurd account without losing their integrity — or their heads."

Here is a look at the production:

View the Entire Photo Gallery Harry Groener Photo by Michael Lamont

Performances continue to Dec. 20.

For more information, visit GeffenPlayhouse.com.