From left: Lexi Thammavong as Lucetta, Camille Young as Silvia, and Anthony Crosby as Thurio. (Photo courtesy of SCP)

The popular local theater company returns next week to perform Shakespeare with a musical twist. With music by Galt MacDermot and lyrics by John Guare, this 1971 Tony Award-winning, ground-breaking adaptation of the Bard’s sixteenth-century comedy is a fusion of danceable pop, stirring soul, electrifying rock, creative storytelling, and biting social commentary.

“This summer’s production is more than just entertainment,” said guest artistic director, Shamus. “It’s a powerful response to the rising tide of hate and discrimination against LGBTQ+ and other groups. The message is clear: no one can flourish without self-love. The production also boldly confronts issues of war mongering and the ever-widening wealth gap.”

The cast includes some of Philadelphia’s exciting young theatrical talent. Camille E. Young (Theatre Horizon, Delaware Theatre Company, Theatre Exile) is the object of everyone’s affection as Silvia. Donovan Lockett (Philadelphia Theatre Company) returns to Shakespeare in Clark Park as her lover Eglamour. Lexi Thammavong (Delaware Shakespeare, Theatre Horizon, Media Theater) plays the hilarious Lucetta. Anthony Crosby (Die-Cast, EgoPo, Barrymore Awards nominee) is the lecherous Thurio. Wyatt Flynn (Hum’n’bards, Jaffe St Queer Productions) portrays the dog devoted Launce.  Andrew Carroll returns to Philadelphia as the charismatically nefarious Duke. Recent local graduates Vanesa Gomez and Kerlin Pyun and current student Bryant Fleming also add their splendid voices to the show.

Choreographer Tiara Nock has created dances that start onstage and spill into the audience. Music Director Kennedy McAlister leads the players through a myriad of musical numbers, with Barrymore Awards nominee Chris Sannino and Michael Morrongiello orchestrating an improved sound system.

Opening night is Wednesday, July 26 at 7 p.m. in Clark Park (43rd and Chester). Weather permitting, the outdoor performances continue through Sunday, July 30, at 7 each evening. The grassy “bowl” in the park is a natural amphitheater and friendly setting to bring picnic baskets and folding chairs for a night of revelry under the stars.

As a socially conscious community organization, Shakespeare in Clark Park offers its performances for free, but encourages all who are able to contribute to meeting the production costs of these joyful public events. If you would like to make a donation, go here. To learn more, go to http://www.shakespeareinclarkpark.org.