Orlando Shakespeare Theater to Host 6th Annual Mock Trial, 2/25

The 6th Annual Mock Trial features actors from Orlando Shakes' upcoming production of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (running January 22 - March 9, 2014). The audience will render an advisory verdict and a panel of five special guest judges will announce the final ruling. Kimberly Ashby, a shareholder at Akerman Senterfitt LLP, and John Hamilton, a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, will serve as the advocates.

"We're very excited to present Orlando Shakespeare Theater's 2014 Mock Trial, based on the Theater's epic production of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby," said Mock Trial Committee Leader Cory L. Taylor, Partner at Roetzel & Andress, LPA. "This year's Mock Trial promises to have a number of dramatic twists and surprises!"

The public event also includes an opportunity to mingle with leading members of Central Florida's legal, business, and artistic communities in a pre-show cocktail hour. Starting at 6:00 p.m., all ticket holders are invited to enjoy light hors d'oeuvres provided by CRAVE (www.craveamerica.com) and one complimentary drink.

Since 2009, the Bard's Board Barristers have hosted mock trials that explore contemporary legal thought using classic plays as their template. Past mock trials have considered whether Shakespeare's Hamlet was indeed insane when he killed Polonius, and addressed a contentious Darcy v. Wickham defamation lawsuit based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

The 6th Annual Mock Trial is sponsored by Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC). Orlando Shakespeare Theater is supported by United Arts of Central Florida, host of power2give.org/centralflorida, and the collaborative Campaign for the Arts. Orlando Shakespeare Theater is also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.