‘Complete Works’ puts Bard in new light

Three actors, one stage, 90 minutes. Plenty of time and acting power to present William Shakespeare’s 37 plays.

“Prepare to be amused, delighted and enlightened by Shakespeare’s timeless comedies, tragedies, and historic plays,” advised director Wendy Tennis, who’s directing the weekend performances at the Waldorf School near Carbondale. “It’s written like an improvisation but is actually a very tight script, and that’s part of the challenge for our actors. The actors need to literally run to achieve the costume and character changes required.”

Written and first performed in 1987 by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, the “Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)” features local actors Tyler Baker, Brad Blunt and John Goss. The production is part of an outreach program to bring live theater and Shakespeare into schools.

“It simply delights the audience and brings the Bard to humanistic terms,” Tennis said. “It delivers fast-paced fun that takes you beyond the language barrier. That’s why I wanted students to see it.”

Last week, Basalt High School hosted two performances of “Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged).” The Waldorf School will host three shows ” one for students and two public performances at 7 p.m. today and Saturday. Today’s show is considered more student-friendly in terms of language; Saturday’s performance is more adult-oriented.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10 for students and $15 for adults. Proceeds benefit future theatrical projects in the schools.