It’s interesting because a lot of my theatre-loving friends groan at the idea of seeing community theatre. The idea of sitting through a less than polished performance is painful to them and they can’t imagine doing what I do to support the arts. While I certainly have had my share of rough sits over the years the truth is sometimes I enjoy the experience of watching imperfect community theatre even more than the polished professional productions. I guess I’m just weird like that.

Saturday I went up to Brigham City to see the Brigham City Fine Arts Center’s production of Much Ado About Nothing. I had never seen anything at the center and since this is my favorite Shakespeare play it seemed like the perfect time to head up north for a show. While this is definitely not a polished show I still really enjoyed it and hope that all involved have a great experience diving into Shakespeare’s best romantic comedy.

This Much Ado About Nothing is directed by Richelle Sutton and it’s a simple production in the main stage of the arts center. It’s basically a black box type set up with minimalist sets and lighting (stage manager Marci Lund and lighting designer Justin ‘Spot’ Beecher.) I like that the cast has participants of all ages and abilities. It makes it feel like a true community event.

Speaking of the cast Caderik Wilson and Emma Olson who play our Benedick and Beatrice respectively are a married couple in real life. This is always a fun element in a romantic comedy play and helps achieve that chemistry. Their banter particularly at the beginning is a lot of fun and they are both funny in the iconic gulling scenes.

The other highlight in the cast is Victoria Vanard as Dogberry/Antonio. She seems like the most experienced of the cast and helped ground scenes and help the newer actors- even one on book because of a last minute change. I love in community theatre when everyone bands together to get the show finished. It’s such a wonderful feeling to finish something together that’s very challenging. Even as audience members we share in that sense of accomplishment. Dogberry can be a bit overdone in this play so it was nice to see someenergy put into that performance in particular.

If you are up in Brigham City than I’d encourage you to visit and support Much Ado About Nothing at the Brigham City Fine Arts Center. It’s far from perfect but I’m glad I went and saw this hilarious play put on with real heart. It is playing through June 19th and tickets can be purchased here.

Much Ado About Nothing is written by William Shakespeare. It is his 17th play and was released between 1598 and 1599.

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