Synopsis

Set in the modern political era, the King of Navarre gets his three companions to forswear the company of women for three years while they focus on fasting and studying. As soon as the proclamation is signed Biron reminds Navarre that a delegation from France, led by the Princess of France, is coming to negotiate a land dispute. Meanwhile a fifth companion of Navarre’s, Don Armado, has fallen head over heels in love with Jaquenetta, a young woman, who has been canoodling with Costard, a young man, on the side. After the French delegation arrives and is forced to sleep outside, Navarre and his companions begin to secretly woo the women from France. Costard causes a mix up with the two letters that he is asked to deliver, one from Don Armado, one from Biron. In an attempt to understand what is happening he reaches out the learned Holofernes and Nathaniel. The men, after discovering each other’s wooing, throw their oaths to the wind and decide to dress up as Russian’s to court the women. In addition they hire Holofernes, who then ropes Costard, Moth, Don Armado and Nathaniel, to produce a play for the women. The play they decide on the story of the seven worthies. The women, overhearing the men’s play, decide to play along with them and trick them right back. After all is revealed a message is delivered to the Princess telling her that her father has died and she must return at once. The play within a play is cancelled right as Costard tells Don Armado that Jacquenetta is pregnant. The women declare that the men must swear an oath to wait a year and a day to prove that their love is everlasting. Don Armado informs them all that he has also pledged a similar oath to Jacquenetta. The play ends in a song.

All photos courtesy of Brian McConkey

Click below to see reviews from the show!

1. Chicago Theater and Arts Review