The Curate Shakespeare As You Like It

Geneva theater presents twist on Shakespeare comedy

GENEVA – It starts with a hapless theater company trying to perform William Shakespeare's classic comedy, "As You Like It."

Then they lose most of the cast, but must fulfill a contract to continue the performance.

"And comedy ensues," says Dave Gustafason.

That's how Gustafson describes "The Curate Shakespeare As You Like It," by Don Nigro, which opens Sept. 10 and runs through Sept. 25 at the Geneva Underground Playhouse, 524 W. State St.

"It's a love letter to the idea that all the world's a stage," says Gustafson, of Warrenville, who directs the production. The play contains slapstick humor, wry repartee, romance and a healthy dose of the Bard.

It also features a talented cast, all newcomers to the Geneva Underground Playhouse stage.

They are: Mike Manolakes, of Bolingbrook, as the Curate; Christina Ferrari, of Lisle, as Rosalind; Susan O'Byrne, of Hinsdale, as Celia; George McArdle, of Schaumburg, as Amiens; Ryan Ruffatti, of Palatine, as Clown; Cheryl Newman, of Naperville, as Audrey; and Ed McDow, of Warrenville, as William.

Performances are at 8 p.m. Sept. 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25, and at 3 p.m. Sept. 12 and 19. Tickets are $20 for adults, with a $15 price for students and seniors. Tickets are available with a credit card at the theater's website, genevaundergroundplayhouse.com, or with check or cash at the door. You can make a reservation by calling the theater at 630-232-7683.