Jungle Theatre to Open SHAKESPEARE'S WILL on 2/7

To open its 2014 Season, the Jungle Theater presents the regional premiere of SHAKESPEARE'S WILL, written by award-winning Canadian playwright Vern Thiessen. After the death of William Shakespeare, his widow, Anne Hathaway (played by Cathy Fuller in her Jungle debut), recalls her life with - and without - the enigmatic poet. Artistic Director Bain Boehlke designs and directs an imaginative story of a wife and mother who made tremendous sacrifices for love and life, opening February 7 and running through March 23 at the Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Av. S. in Minneapolis.

Featuring music from the Elizabethan era with a compelling period soundscape created by C. Andrew Mayer, the dynamic one-woman play showcases theatricality, humor and brashness on Boehlke's beautifully-designed set, inspired by elements from Hathaway's Cottage, which still exists near Stratford-upon-Avon.

Shakespeare's Will premiered in 2005 at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton, Alberta, and has played to enthusiastic audiences in numerous theaters across the United States and Canada, including the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in 2011. The 2007 U.S. premiere was produced by Leonard Nimoy.

In addition to Ivey Award/McKnight Lifetime Achievement Award-winning Boehlke and Mayer, the Shakespeare's Will creative team includes Bill Devins (lighting design), Amelia Cheever (costume design), John Novak (properties and stage manager) and John Stillwell (technical director).

Shakespeare's Will performances are Tuesdays ($25), Wednesdays ($33) and Thursdays ($38) at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. ($43); Sundays at 2 p.m. ($38); and Sundays at 7:30 p.m. ($33). Senior, student and group discounts are also available, and rush tickets are available every night of the week 30 minutes prior to the performance for $10 off the regular price. Tickets are available at (612) 822-7063 or online at www.jungletheater.com.

PHOTO CREDIT: Drew Trampe