Much Ado About Nothing

The Montclair Foundation & Studio Players Announce an Immersive Production of Much Ado About Nothing Set for a July 2026 Debut

Get ready for a Shakespearean takeover! The Montclair Foundation/Van Vleck House & Gardens and Studio Players are delighted to present William Shakespeare’s classic comedy of romance and intrigue, “Much Ado About Nothing,” opening July 10 at the Van Vleck House & Gardens in Montclair, New Jersey. This is no ordinary stage production; it’s an immersive theatrical experience. The grounds of the former private Van Vleck residence, a stunning 5.8-acre botanical oasis, will be completely transformed into the site of a comedy of errors. Audience members will find themselves in the heart of the action as Shakespearean actors bring the story to life throughout the gardens

 

Much Ado About Nothing 360°
The play, originally set in and around a castle in 16th Century Messina, Italy, is structurally ideal for the Van Vleck location as it moves from lush interiors to cultivated exteriors, and the staging will create an immersive opportunity for attendees to explore the beauty of the Van Vleck estate while simultaneously enjoying one of the Bard’s most beloved comedies.

Originally penned in 1598-1599, Much Ado About Nothing is a rollicking comedy centered around two romantic couples, the naive and wistful Claudio and Hero, and the more worldly-wise Benedick and Beatrice. Situated in and around a medieval castle in Messina, Sicily, the story unfolds as members of Don Pedro’s army descend on Leonato’s castle for a few weeks of rest and relaxation after claiming victory in battle. What follows is a witty examination of the nature of love involving trickery, mistaken identity, vengeful propositions, an exuberant masquerade ball, and a wedding gone horribly wrong.

Performances will be held on July 10th – 11th and July 17th- 18th from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with rain dates to be announced. Join us for a VIP Opening Night celebration on Friday, July 10th at 6:00 PM, featuring a lively pre-show reception with champagne and hors d’oeuvres to kick off the production in style. Opening Night tickets are $75, while general admission tickets for all other performances are $50.

 

Studio Players (14 Alvin Place, Montclair, NJ) is the oldest continually-operating community theatre in Northern New Jersey–offering numerous opportunities for volunteers to participate at all levels (producing, directing, designing, performing, and technical support) in productions of exciting new plays and beloved classics. Founded in 1937 on the site of an old clock factory, our non-profit organization is now a staple of Montclair’s ever-growing arts scene, and we pride ourselves in presenting quality productions featuring groups of artists that reflect the diversity of Montclair and the surrounding communities. For more information, please visit StudioPlayhouse.org

The Cast

Just announced! Here is the list of talented performers chosen for the production:

• Benedick: Michael Smith-Gallo
• Beatrice: Lydia DeSouza
• Hero: Jackie Kuczinski
• Claudio: Gabe Michelson
• Leonato: Bill Barry
• Don Pedro: Jeff Taylor
• Antonio: Chaz Turner
• Don John: Atilla Toy
• Borachio: Matt Delhauer
• Conrade: Laurie Delinois
• Ursula: Samantha Egge
• Margaret: Rosy Lum
• Dogberry: Marilyn Woodhull
• Verges: Ron Leir
• Balthazar/Sexton: Demetrius Acevedo
• Messenger/Watchman: Collin Wehr
• Friar Francis: Barry Roy