Shakespeare Theatre Company presents The Servant of Two Masters

Apr 16, 2012
Shakespeare Theatre Company

The Shakespeare Theatre Company presents its first Carlo Goldoni classic: The Servant of Two Masters, adapted by Constance Congdon. Celebrated director Christopher Bayes will direct this production which had a sold-out run at Yale Repertory Theatre. This magical, highly physical, commedia dell'arte production will run at the Lansburgh Theatre (450 7th Street NW) from May 15-June 24, 2012.

The Servant of Two Masters centers on the wily servant Truffaldino, played by Steven Epp, who devises a zany scheme to double his wages by serving two masters at once. Mayhem erupts when identities are mistaken, engagements are broken and lovers are reunited in this commedia dell'arte masterpiece. "The Servant of Two Masters offers so many opportunities for music, for playfulness, for tragic abandon. It has everything in it. It has poetry and even this knocked-out farcical element in it that allows for great physical play," says director Christopher Bayes.

Commedia dell'arte, which began in Italy in the 16th century, is characterized by physical comedy, improvisation and recognizable character types. With The Servant of Two Masters, Goldoni wanted to pay homage to commedia while also putting his own twist on it. All of the play's characters are drawn from the form's rich history. Music, dance and physicality are a large and important part of the performance, and Sound Designers Nathan A. Roberts and Charles Coes along with Composers and Musicians Aaron Halva and Chris Curtis will enhance the musical experience for the audience. STC audiences will be able to witness the silliness that ensues out of desperation for food and love in this whimsical production.

Additionally, STC's production of The Servant of Two Masters will tour to the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis and ArtsEmerson: The World On Stage in Boston as part of their 2012-2013 Seasons.

To reserve tickets or to learn more, patrons can call the box office at 202.547.1122, or visit ShakespeareTheatre.org.