Work a Shrew and a Mermaid into Your Weekend Plans

In addition to Tidewater Players’ “Spamalot,” which I wrote about last week, there are two other theatrical performances taking place in the area this weekend that are budget-friendly and worth taking in.

The first is being presented by the Havre de Grace Drama Guild’s Teen Troupe.  Friday night at 7:00 pm, come out and enjoy the “Shakespeare in a Box” edition of “The Taming of the Shrew.”  It is a roughly 45-minute version of the Bard’s classic comedy.  Laugh along as you watch the exploits of Petruchio as he attempts to win the heart of the strong-willed Katherina.  Just as gender roles were adjusted during Shakespearean times (with the men playing women’s parts because women were not permitted to perform on stage), the Teen Troupe may have a few surprises in store for those in attendance Friday night.  The dialogue is pulled right from Shakespeare’s original, only edited down for brevity with the help of some hilarious narrators to keep you on track.

The show is being produced in true “Black Box” fashion, with minimal set.  Admission for this event is absolutely free, no ticket required.  Seating is by general admission, though, so be sure come early to get a good seat.  “The Taming of the Shrew” is being performed in the Multipurpose Room of the Havre de Grace Activity Center, next to the Middle School, 351 Lewis Lane.  Doors open at 6:30.  If you have any questions, contact hdgdrama@yahoo.com.

Also this weekend, Good Shepherd Catholic School just across the river in Perryville is presenting Kathryn Schultz Miller’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic, “The Little Mermaid.”  Young Annabelle, daughter of Neptune, trades her voice to the evil Odessa in exchange for making her human.  Come join the cast and crew in this musical adventure over the river and under the ocean.

Show times for “The Little Mermaid” are Saturday, May 17 at 7:00 pm and Sunday, May 18 at 2:00 pm.  Tickets are only $5.00 and will be sold at the door.  Good Shepherd Catholic School is located at 800 Aiken Avenue, Perryville.   You can see the show’s virtual playbill at:
http://www.playbillvip.com/show/vip/Good_Shepherd_Catholic_School/2014/The_Little_Mermaid_9217