Enjoy another summer of Shakespeare under the stars when Moraine Valley Community College presents “The Merchant of Venice” July 20-23 outdoors at the Gateway on the main campus, 9000 W. College Pkwy.
Admission is free, which will be Thursday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., at the Gateway, located between Buildings M and F.
Moraine Valley students cast for the 16th century play by William Shakespeare include Timothy McCarthy, of Tinley Park, as Antonio; Kevin Ross, of Hickory Hills, as Bassanio; Brian Walsh, of Chicago, as Gratiano; Kacey Nichols, of Palos Heights, as Portia; Lena Smith, of Blue Island, as Nerissa; Owen McGee, of Mokena, as Lorenzo; Amanda Teplitz, of Orland Park, as Jessica, Dan Scott, of Des Plaines, as Shylock; and Luke Simone, of Orland Park; as Salerio.
Also, James Smith, of Alsip, as Solanio; Daniel Byrne-Szafoni, of Oak Lawn, as Lancelot; John Reidy, of Palos Park, as Old Gobbo; Jack Higgins, of Chicago, as the Duke of Venice; Yasir Muhammad, of Oak Lawn, as the Prince of Morocco; Zahi Odah, of Oak Lawn, as the Prince of Arragon; Eric Taylor, of Evergreen Park, as Tubal; Kenneth Richardson, of Oak Lawn, as Stephano; Isaiah Hernandez, of Burbank, as Gaoler; and Leonardo Aranda, of Oak Forest, as Leonardo. Ensemble members include Brandie Lorenzen, of Blue Island; Erika Dampier, of Robbins; Kirsten Baity, of Robbins; Valerie Triolo, of Tinley Park; and Jackie Harney, of Orland Park.
The production crew features Dr. Craig Rosen, director; Stephanie Lewis, assistant director; Kerith Parashak, scenic designer; Jane Bagnall, costume designer; Katie Kennedy, prop master; Lena Smith, assistant costume designer; Sean McIntosh, lighting and design; Torry Smith, sound; and Stephanie Meehan, stage manager.
“The Merchant of Venice” is hailed as a serious comedy that explores the universal issues of friendship, love, prejudice, and the quality of mercy. Play goers are encouraged to bring a picnic, lawn chairs and blankets.
For more information, contact the Fine and Performing Arts Center Box Office at (708) 974-5500 or boxoffice@morainevalley.edu.
