NOTE: “Today” and “tonight” refer to Friday, Feb. 19.
PORT ANGELES — In the words of Sir Francis Bacon, “some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.”
When it comes to Shakespeare, digesting all of his written plays takes time.
With the idea of offering up Shakespeare’s combined stories in bite-size morsels, the Port Angeles Community Players this evening will perform “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised]” by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield.
Reducing the play “Hamlet” wasn’t enough for the authors; they went on to condense all 37 plays — the comedies, the tragedies and the histories — into one madcap, irreverent play spanning 97 minutes.
It doesn’t matter if you are a lover or hater of Shakespeare, said director Anna Andersen, “there is something for everyone.”
The performance, however, deals with mature themes and language, and is recommended for those 16 and older.
The cast includes Shannon Cosgrove, Tavin Dotson and Josh McLean as the three main actors who are supported by Ryan Brooke, Josh Sutcliffe, Ross Kavanaugh, Benjamin Komar, Janet Lucas and Jeff Tocher.
Tocher is a local artist who also will paint during the production.
The play opens tonight at 7:30 and continues at the same time Saturday, Tuesday, Feb. 26 and Feb. 27, as well as March 1, March 4 and March 5.
There also will be 2 p.m. productions Sunday and Feb. 28 and March 6.
All performances are at the Port Angeles Community Playhouse, 1235 E. Lauridsen Blvd.
Tickets are $14 for adults and $7 for students.
On Tuesdays, tickets are $14 for reserved seating or $7 at the door for festival seating.
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Reporter Chris McDaniel can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56650, or cmcdaniel@peninsuladailynews.com.
