Ashley Carter and More Join Cast of A Classic Theatre's FOR THE LOVE OF SHAKESPEARE

A Classic Theatre announces the cast of their next production, For the Love of Shakespeare! As theaters around the world celebrate 400 years of Shakespeare, ACT offers a tribute to the Bard with this comedic trio of one-acts. Follow the antics of this company of actors as they explore Shakespeare's world with tongue firmly planted in cheek. The one-acts include "The Dark Lady of the Sonnets" by George Bernard Shaw, "SHAKESappear!" by Milton E. Polsky, and "Something Rotten in Denmark" by Ann Karine (aka Annie G.).

Director Deborah Dickey has selected a talented group of six actors for these light-hearted Valentines to the Bard. The cast includes Ashley Carter, as Shakespeare and Jason, who most recently appeared in ACT's production of "Voices of the Dark and Classic"; Jessica Ferris, a veteran of ACT and the Limelight stage, who creates the roles of The Dark Lady and Mary; and Christine Fogarty, appearing as The Lady and Anne, who currently teaches Theater at Flagler College and was last seen in ACT's production of "Voices of the Dark and Classic."

Making their ACT debut are Jenna Foley and Stephen Mitchell. Jenna, portraying Judith Shakespeare and Cornelia, studies Theater at Flagler College where she appeared last year in "Emotional Creature." Stephen Mitchell, a St. Augustine native, has worked as a director, actor and producer for both film and theater. He appears in the roles of Shakespeare and Hamlet's Ghost. Rounding out the cast is Kelly McTaggart as The Beefeater and Bartholomew. Kelly is a familiar face to St. Augustine audiences most recently appearing in ACT production of "Threads of Silver and Gold: Women of the Panama Canal" in the role of Theodore Roosevelt.

From Shaw's witty take on the "Dark Lady" to the uproarious backstage intrigue of the very first production of "Hamlet" in Shakespeare's own theatre, you will be treated to an evening as you like it! Performances of "For the Love of Shakespeare!" are set for Feb. 17-18 at 7:30 pm with a 2:00 pm Sumday matinee on Feb. 19 at the Pioneer Barn located at 259 San Marco Ave., uptown St. Augustine. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and are available online at www.aclassictheatre.org. Information and reservations at aclassictheatre@hotmail.com or phone 904-501-5093.