THE OFFICIAL SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN
Come join us for
MSF's 2025 MainStage Season
July 2 - August 10
Hilberry Gateway Theatre
Detroit, Michigan 48202
"Since I cannot prove a lover…
I am determined to prove a villain."
Fourth in line for the Throne of England, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, uses his cunning intelligence, fearsome charm, and political wit to overthrow all rivals that stand between him and the ultimate power. One of the great villains of literature, Richard deftly manipulates his victims with fear, humor, and style bringing the audience along as accomplices to his worst crimes. A striking study of politics, power, and the ambition needed for both, Richard III will make you enjoy the horrible and cheer for the scoundrel – until you don’t.
Directed by MSF Artistic Director Janice L Blixt
Featuring MSF Favorite Rico Bruce Wade
"Thou and I are too wise to woo peaceably."
The War is over and the soldiers have just come home. Now is the time for fun, frivolity and romance—until a disgraced soldier’s manipulations threaten the loyalty and friendship of army buddies and jeopardize the engagement of young lovers. Much Ado About Nothing is the romantic-comedy home of the “Merry War” between lovers Beatrice and Benedick and the intrigues of one of Shakespeare’s silliest pair of clowns: Dogberry and Verges.
Directed by MSF Artistic Director Janice L Blixt
Featuring Artistic Associate Robert Kauzlaric
"S'Twould be hard to guess which of these parties is the better pleased, the couple joined,
or the couple parted; the one rejoicing in hopes of an untasted happiness,
and the other in their deliverance from an unexpected misery."
Society beaux Archer and Aimwell are on the hunt for rich wives to help them live in the manner to which they have been accustomed. When they arrive in the city of Litchfield and meet Dorinda and Kate, the shenanigans begin with clever lovers, saucy servants, acerbic toffs, and a silly band of brigands. Written in 1707 by Restoration playwright George Farquhar, The Beaux' Stratagem, subtitled for this production with A Comedy of Bad Manners, is a delightfully bright country romp with layers of satire and social commentary.
World Premiere Adapted and Directed by MSF Artistic Associate Robert Kauzlaric