Orlando Shakespeare Theater

Titus Gets Intimate Treatment

Bearing a cautionary notice for parents and theatergoers, Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF is preparing to open William Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus March 29 at the Loundes Shakespeare Center.

“This is going to be a terrific Titus with a small cast in an intimate, thrilling space, up-close and personal,” said Jim Helsinger in a press release. He is Orlando Shakes artistic director, and is directing the play. “Simple, gory, horrific, sick, and twisted, Titus Andronicus was the most popular of Shakespeare's plays during his lifetime and is increasingly relevant today.”

The theater notes that, while the play would be akin to a summer blockbuster today, teenagers as well as some adults may find the graphic scenes of violence and the play's explicit sexual content disturbing. Concerned parents and theatergoers should contact the box office for more information.

With this play, Orlando Shakes is also introducing a new prologue series. Starting 30 minutes before each performance, Orlando Shakes actors will lead the audience through a workshop on the plot, themes, and major characters of Titus Andronicus. This is free for all ticket buyers, with no RSVP necessary.

Titus Andronicus features Johnny Epstein as Titus, Jean Tafler as Tamora, Esau Prichett as Aaron, Greg Jackson as Saturninus, Paul Bernado as Marcus, Geoffrey Kent as Lucius, and Kelly Kilgore as Lavinia. Rounding out the cast is Justin Baldwin as Bassianus, Casey Noble as Quintus, Danielle Gosselin as Martius, Greg Joubert as Chiron, Matthew Natale Rush as Demetrius, and Alex Koller as Young Lucius. The creative team includes Scenic Designer Bob Phillips, Costume Designer Lisa Zinni, Lighting Designer Eric T. Haugen, and Sound Designer Britt Sandusky.

The play is made possible by A. Brian Phillips, PA, Foley & Lardner LLP, and JetBlue. Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF is supported by United Arts of Central Florida with funds from the United Arts campaign and by State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Arts Council.

Titus Andronicus opens March 29 and runs through April 28,. Tickets, priced at $17–$40, are on sale now by calling 407-447-1700 or contacting http://orlandoshakes.org.

February 26, 2013

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