The Public to Present Musical Adaptation of TWELFTH NIGHT This Summer

The New York Times reports that The Public Theater will kick off its summer program with a musical adaptation of TWELFTH NIGHT, created by Kwame Kwei-Armah and Shaina Taub.

The classic Shakespeare comedy of mixed signals was presented at Shakespeare in the Park in 2009 with Anne Hathaway, Audra McDonald and Raul Esparza among the cast. The upcoming incarnation will feature music and lyrics by Taub, who comes from a strong Broadway and pop music background. British Kwei-Armah, who serves as artistic director of Baltimore's Center Stage, will helm the production.

According to Ms. Taub, the production take place in a port city during carnival season. The text will be recited in classic Shakespeare's language, while the songs will be in contemporary language. Explained Taub, "It's so amazing to start from a play that works so well, and just zoom out the emotional moments and turn them into big songs."

The Public Theater will also be joining forces with community centers around the city to offer workshops, classes, and the theatrical pieces. Affiliated theaters in Dallas, Seattle, and Detroit will have the opportunity to present their own community-based productions.

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus