The Academic Theater Department at Moraine Valley Community College will present William Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra,” July 18 through July 21, outdoors at the Gateway (between Buildings F and M), 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills. Admission is free for the performances, which will be at 7 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, and at 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Directed by Dr. Craig Rosen, professor of Theater and coordinator of the Academic Theater Program, “Antony and Cleopatra” ranks among one of Shakespeare’s most epic historical love stories. In the absence of Julius Caesar, the story follows Mark Antony as he is torn between the irresistible Egyptian queen, Cleopatra, and his military obligation to the Roman Empire. Dealing with politics and power, gossip and scandal, and love and jealousy, the play reveals the inevitable drama that comes along with love and war.

The cast includes:

• Brian Walsh, of Chicago, as Mark Antony
• Diane Nettare, of Palos Park, as Cleopatra
• Kelly Fitzgerald, of Chicago Ridge, as Iras
• Matt Kuchen, of Evergreen Park, as Ventidius and Alexas
• JaKorey Higgs-Jackson, of Birmingham, Alabama, as Soothsayer, Taurus and Caesar Century
• Jack Higgins, of Chicago, as Schoolmaster
• John Reidy, of Palos Park, as Seleucus and Demetrius
• Phil Montanez, of Naperville, as Mardian and Dolabella
• Michael Depriest Reed, of Robbins, as Agrippa and Clown Countryman
• R.J. Cecott, of Hickory Hills, as Diomedes and Pompey
• Kevin Ross, of Hickory Hills, as Octavius Caesar
• Ashlyn Wiebe, of Chicago, as Charmain
• Rose Mozier, of Willow Springs, as Menecrates, Canidius and Dercetus
• Natalie Jurcik, of Bridgeview, as Octavia
• Jen Paulos, of Alsip, as Ero and Proculeius
• Valarie Triolo, of Tinley Park, as Maecenas
• Dan Scott, of Des Plaines, as Domitius Enobarbus
• Joe Kata, of Crestwood, as Lepidus and Thyrus
• Christian Villanueva, of Bridgeview, as Menas, Scarus and Gallus.

Audience members are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy during the performance; however, please note alcohol and smoking are not allowed on the Moraine Valley campus.

For more information, call the Box Office at (708) 974-5500 or visit us online.