Shakespeare Orange County Demolishes Racial Barriers with Multicultural Performances

Amidst our country's heated discussions about racial tension, immigration laws, and travel bans, Shakespeare Orange County (SOC) uses art to convey messages of inclusion and diversity. They offer audiences a world in which classical English literature is blended with multicultural influences, resulting in colorful and unforgettable experiences.

Following the successes of past performances - including Romeo & Juliet, which featured Juliet's quinceañera; and A Midsummer Night's Dream, which featured Polynesian dance troupe Hitia O Te Ra - this year's The Tempest is given new life by director Peter Uribe; with choreography by Josh Romero; and guest stars traditional Korean drumming and dancing, choreographed by Miock Ji, internationally acclaimed performer and Korean dance instructor. The headlining actors include Harry Groener, Morlan Higgins, and Hal Landon, Jr. - all beloved industry veterans of Hollywood and Broadway.

Peter Uribe states, "Even though Shakespearean language can be challenging at first for some people, audiences will very quickly pick up on the powerful emotions and storytelling. The Tempest can be interpreted in many ways, but what I most want to convey here is the sense of family and the themes of forgiveness and human connection. We need to be reminded of these things, especially now."

While SOC has been a cultural staple in Orange County for nearly forty years, 2017 marks SOC's fourth year under the leadership of actor and visionary Producing Artistic Director, John Walcutt, who also co-stars in The Tempest. From Walcutt: "I'm so proud of the fact that in only a few short seasons SOC has become not only a reflection of the incredible diversity in our area, but has also suddenly emerged as one of the most forward-thinking companies in American theatre. Receiving the Local Impact Award from the California Arts Council in Sacramento for 'using the arts to positively impact your community' is a great confirmation of our mission statement. Now, we are working to find key donors and sponsors to help us present it all, in the near future, totally free."

The Tempest opens on July 15th and runs through July 29th at the Garden Grove Festival Amphitheatre, located at 12762 Main Street; Garden Grove, CA 92840. For tickets, visit ShakespeareOC.org.

SOC is a non-profit organization and has been a treasured source of artistic enrichment based in Garden Grove for almost forty years. SOC is committed to building bridges across cultures and generations through the works of Shakespeare, as well as through music, dance, and art. Their productions feature celebrated, world-class performers alongside up-and-coming stars and local students. Learn more at www.ShakespeareOC.org.

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