Quincy Community Theatre announces 27 performers as part of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ cast

QUINCY — Quincy Community Theatre recently announced the cast for its upcoming production of “Shakespeare in Love.”

The Oscar-winning film comes to life onstage in a production that’s both funny and romantic. Young Will Shakespeare has writer’s block … the deadline for his new play, “Romeo and Ethel, The Pirate’s Daughter,” is fast approaching but he’s in desperate need of inspiration.

Enter Viola, a headstrong noblewoman and admirer of Will’s, who disguises herself as a boy so she can skirt the law and appear in his play. When the playwright and his muse fall in love, the plot undergoes some surprising rewrites. Mistaken identities, courtly intrigue and backstage bickering are all part of the fun in this romantic comedy of errors.

“Shakespeare in Love” will take the stage at Quincy Community Theatre April 19-21 and April 25-28. Flex season ticket holders may reserve their tickets now, and general tickets go on sale on March 26. Seating is reserved.

“Shakespeare in Love” features a cast of 27 performers, including several performers making their QCT debut. The cast consists of:

• Jeremy Kurfman as William Shakespeare
• Adrienne Fisk as Viola De Lesseps
• Brock Elmore as Kit Marlow
• Tim Hake as Lord Wessex
• John Dozier as Henslowe
• Jeri Conboy as Queen Elizabeth

Populating Renaissance London and its theatre scene will be:

• Kaitlyn Beth
• Kristie Bradshaw
• Rachel Brown
• Dan Conboy
• Alec Eaton
• Heidi Haisley
• Nicole Herrington
• Brennan Hills
• Quinton Metcalf
• Bre Meyer
• Crystal Perry
• Lisa Rabe
• Marissa Rabe
• Susan Scholz
• Maurice Silas
• Dan Stephens
• Charles Turnbow
• Jason Washington
• Barrett Whitfield
• Randy Wolfmeyer
• LeAndre Wittner

The main stage production is under the direction of guest director Elissa Wolf. In a press release, Wolf said, “‘Shakespeare in Love’ is more than just a love story. We get to witness individuals pursue their dreams, fighting against formidable challenges. ‘Shakespeare in Love’ appeals to fans of the original film, admirers of Shakespeare and theater enthusiasts alike. We have a talented cast, and I can’t wait for the community to see this stunning production.”

The production team is comprised of scenic design by Steven Kendall, lighting design by Erin Thibodaux, costume design by Valerie Hernandez, choreography by Alison Shafer, prop management by Quinton Metcalf, stage management by Mekia Gay and assistant stage manager Sara Turnbow.

An interactive Discovery Night for “Shakespeare in Love” will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 9, at Quincy Community Theatre. The free event will give participants a view into the production process with discussion and Q&A. In addition, immediately following the Friday, April 26, performance, there will be a Q&A talkback session with the cast and crew.

A volunteer build day to help construct the set for “Shakespeare in Love” will be from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 23. More information can be found at 1qct.org/volunteer-opportunities.

For more information, visit 1qct.org or call the QCT box office in the Oakley-Lindsay Center at 217-222-3209.

“Shakespeare in Love” is sponsored by Knapheide. QCT’s 2024 season is sponsored by Gardner Denver.