Enid’s Gaslight Theatre will perform The Book of Will October 20, 21, 22, 27 and 28 on their mainstage at 221 N. Independence. Performances are at 7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 pm on Sundays. Tickets are available at www.gaslighttheatre.org or by calling 580-234-2307.
The Book of Will is a funny, warm and witty play that serves as a fitting tribute to Shakespeare’s work and the forethought of his friends. Without William Shakespeare, we wouldn’t have literary masterpieces like “Hamlet”; but without John Hemmings and Henry Condell, we wouldn’t have William Shakespeare. After the death of their friend and mentor, the two actors move heaven and earth to preserve Shakespeare’s plays for future generations. Their efforts result in the First Folio, published exactly 400 years ago.
“Shakespeare coined so many of the words and phrases we use today,” said director Christianne Chase. “If you’ve ever found yourself ‘in a pickle’ or ‘on a wild goose chase,’ then you have Hemmings and Condell to thank for it. Without these men, we wouldn’t know Shakespeare.”
“My degree is in European history but until I read this play I never knew how Shakespeare’s plays were preserved for future generations. Everything that happens in this play is true, and it’s an amazing story” said Chase.
It is also a love letter to all those who have experienced Shakespeare in the Park over the past 30 years at Gaslight. “We’re thrilled to bring ‘The Book of Will’ to the stage at Gaslight Theatre,” said Chase. “In addition to honoring Shakespeare’s legacy, this production is a special tribute to the 30th Anniversary of our free annual Shakespeare in the Park. It’s a celebration of the enduring love for Shakespearean works and the joy they bring to audiences outdoors and now on our stage. We invite everyone to join us for this remarkable journey through Shakespeare’s legacy.”
Audiences can look forward to some special surprises during The Book of Will. ”With the 30th anniversary of our Shakespeare in the Park, I wanted to add some special touches. But you’ll have to buy a ticket to find out what they are!” said Chase.
Gaslight Theatre’s rendition of “The Book of Will” promises an evening of entertainment that blends laughter, drama, and profound emotion. The talented ensemble cast, under the expert direction of seasoned professionals, will bring this historically rich and emotionally poignant story to life.
The Book of Will was written by Lauren Gunderson and is produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc. The Book of Will contains some adult language and some bawdy references. It is recommended for audiences age 12 and older.
About Gaslight Theatre:
The Gaslight Theatre of Enid was founded in 1966 and is one of Oklahoma’s oldest, most active community theatres. Its mission is to provide a wide spectrum of high-quality theatrical entertainment to a broad audience in Enid and the surrounding communities, and to provide a setting for nonprofessional actors, directors, designers and technicians to learn and practice their art. Audition and ticket information is available on the Gaslight Theatre website, www.gaslighttheatre.org.
The Oklahoma Arts Council is the official state agency for the support and development of the arts. The agency’s mission is to lead in the advancement of Oklahoma’s thriving arts industry. The Oklahoma Arts Council provides hundreds of grants to organizations in communities statewide each year, organizes professional development opportunities for the state’s arts and cultural sector, and manages the art collections at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Additional information is available at arts.ok.gov.
Gaslight Theatre Contact
Christianne Chase
Director of The Book of Will
580-278-5290
