Shakespeare Project of Chicago to Present Free Readings of KING JOHN

The Shakespeare Project of Chicago continues its 22nd Theatrical Reading Season with free performances of Shakespeare's KING JOHN, running Jan. 13-17, 2017, at six Chicago-area venues.

King John defends his right to the English crown against a claim by his French nephew Arthur in this sweeping historical saga of war and political intrigue. And just when the English and French appear to make peace, the Pope's ambassador arrives to rekindle the conflict. The opportunistic Philip the Bastard meanwhile leverages his newly gainEd Royal standing to help the declining English king against the French.

Peter Garino, the Shakespeare Project's artistic director, directs a cast that features Kayla Carter, Deborah Clifton, Tony Dobrowolski, Diane Dorsey, Matthew Fahey, Zachary Fewkes, Gary Houston, Ron Keaton, John Kishline, Bill McGough, Michael Joseph Mitchell, Matt Penn, Christopher Prentice, Michelle Shupe and Robert Tobin.

Music and sound design is by George Zahora; Kelly Lynn Hogan is the assistant director.

Admission is free and seating is limited. All performances are preceded by an introduction to the play that commences 15 minutes prior to curtain.

KING JOHN will be performed at six venues in the Chicago area:

- Fri., Jan. 13, 7 p.m., Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St., Niles, IL (pre-registration required, call 847-663-1234)

- Sat., Jan. 14, 10 a.m., Buchanan Chapel, Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago

- Sat., Jan. 14, 2 p.m., Wilmette Public Library, 1242 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL

- Sun., Jan. 15, 2 p.m., Highland Park Public Library, 494 Laurel Ave., Highland Park, IL

- Mon., Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m., Vernon Area Public Library, 300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire, IL (pre-registration required, call 847-634-3650)

- Tue., Jan. 17, 7:15 p.m., Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect, IL (pre-registration required, call 847-253-5675)

The Shakespeare Project's 2016-17 season will continue with Thomas Middleton and William Rowley's THE CHANGELING and Shakespeare's LOVE'S LABOUR'S LOST.

For more information, visit www.shakespeareprojectchicago.org.

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