Directed by Joe Dowling, performances in Minneapolis, MN, are scheduled to continue through Nov. 5.
The cast is led by Daniel Gerroll (A Christmas Carol, Pygmalion) and Tony nominee Dearbhla Molloy (Dancing at Lughnasa) as, respectively, Benedick and Beatrice. They are joined by Bill McCallum (The Winter’s Tale, Macbeth) as Claudio, Michelle O'Neill (The Winter’s Tale, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice) as Hero and Guthrie favorite Peter Michael Goetz (Arms and the Man, A Christmas Carol, The Government Inspector) as the play's "master of malapropisms," Dogberry.
The production, which opens the 2011-2012 season, also features Robert O. Berdahl (Balthasar), Raye Birk (Antonio), Michael Booth (Conrade), Dennis Creaghan (Leonato), Bob Davis (Borachio), Laura Esping (Ursula), Nathaniel Fuller (Verges/Friar Francis), Emily Gunyou Halaas (Margaret), H. Adam Harris (Messenger/George Seacoal), David Manis (Don Pedro), Ron Menzel (Don John/Sexton) and Max Polski (Watchman).
Shakespeare's romantic comedy, according to press notes, "centers on two couples: young lovers Claudio (McCallum) and Hero (O'Neill) and middle-aged Benedick (Gerroll) and Beatrice (Molloy), sworn enemies who become the victims of a clever scheme. In a world where everyone eavesdrops, meddles and minds others' business, Benedick's friends fool him into believing Beatrice loves him and the women do the same for Beatrice. Thus begins their inevitable and entertaining journey to finding true love late in life. Launching the season with a surefire Shakespeare production — the Guthrie at its best — this charming exploration of love and marriage, friendship and honor, delivers music, dancing and merriment, proving that falling in love is for everyone, young and old."
The artistic team includes Tony Award nominee Riccardo Hernández (set designer), Fabio Toblini (costume designer), Tony Award winner Christopher Akerlind (lighting designer), Adam Wernick (composer), Reid Rejsa (sound designer), Andrew Wade (voice and language consultant), Joe Chvala (movement), Michael Lupu (dramaturgy), Russell W. Johnson (production stage manager), Jason Clusman (assistant stage manager) and Sam Bardwell (assistant director). For ticket information visit www.guthrietheater.org.
