'Elizabeth Rex' with Merle Louis, Opens April 4 at Spoon Theatre

Nicu's Spoon proudly presents Elizabeth Rex, written by Timothy Findley and directed by Joanne Zipay, for a three-week limited engagement April 2 - 19 at The Spoon Theatre (38 West 38th St, 5th floor, between 5th and 6th); officially opening Friday, April 4 at 8PM. Tickets are on-sale now at www.TheaterMania.com

"On the eve prior to the dawn execution of Robert, Earl of Essex, for treason, Shakespeare and his company of actors are at court. Under curfew in a barn, with the Queen, through her restless night as she struggles with the decision she has made to behead her beloved 'Robin,'" explain press notes, "On the sixteenth century stage the women roles were played by men; the only woman in the company is the seamstress who makes and repairs the costumes. The Queen is intrigued by the nature of the men that play these roles, and whether their 'essence' is truly that of a man, or of a woman. In part to entertain and divert the Queen who is tormented by her decision to execute Essex, and in part to illuminate the question that so intrigues her, members of the company recite and play short vignettes from various of Shakespeare's plays. In this vein they challenge the Queen with provocative questions that would be inadmissible at any other time or place, and reveal their sympathy for Essex. At times the Queen commands and threatens regally, at times she drops her guard and confesses her womanly feelings."

The production features scenic design by John Trevellini, costume design by Rien Schlecht, and lighting design by Steven Wolf. Damon Law provides original music and sound design.

The production stars Merle Louis (Drama Desk Award Recipient), Bill Galarno (The Godfather) and Oliver Conant (Summer of '42); plus Melanie Horton, Stephanie Barton-Farcas, Rebecca Challis, Michael Digoia, AnDrew Hutcheson, Sammy Mena, Scott Nogi, Tim Romero, Alvero Sena and David Tully.

Elizabeth Rex plays the following regular schedule through Saturday, April 19: Wednesdays - Saturdays at 8PM. There is an added matinee on Saturday, April 19 at 3PM. April 2 is a 'SWAN' night benefit (Support Women Artists Now) with a ticket price of $25. Running time is 2 hours with an intermission.

Tickets are $18 and are now available online at www.theatermania.com or by calling 866-811-4111. Tickets may also be purchased in-person at the Spoon Theatre Box Office, 1 hour prior to showtime.

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