Electra Added to Seattle Shakespeare's Season

Frank McGuinness' acclaimed adaptation to be directed by Sheila Daniels

SEATTLE - Seattle Shakespeare Company announced that it has added Sophocles' Electra to the 2009-2010 indoor season. Sheila Daniels, who staged the company's production of Pericles and is Artistic Associate at Intiman, will direct Frank McGuinness' adaptation. Electra replaces the previously announced production of Hamlet.

"We've decided to postpone our production of Hamlet with director John Langs," says Artistic Director Stephanie Shine. "Due to some fortuitous news with his home life, John won't be available in the first half of 2010. Since collaborating with John was one of the big reasons for scheduling Hamlet, I've decided to move the production to the 2010-2011 season."

Electra marks the first time the company has presented a Greek classic. With the addition of Electra, the previously announced schedule of Seattle Shakespeare Company performance 2009-2010 changes to the following:

2009-2010 INDOOR SEASON

Twelfth Night

By William ShakespeareŸ Directed by Stephanie Shine

December 3-27, 2009

And you thought your household was crazy at the holidays! After surviving a shipwreck and washing up in Illyria, Viola lands a job, disguised as a boy, in Duke Orsino's court. The Duke is pining for Lady Olivia, but she's too consumed with mourning her dead brother to bother. While a randy uncle chases after the maid, a snooty butler scrambles to keep control, and oddball houseguests hatch secret plans behind closet doors. Into this madness drops Sebastian, Viola's twin brother who was thought to be lost at sea. Shakespeare's beguiling comedy of romantic adventures and misdirected love is an enchanting holiday treat for the whole family

Electra

By Sophocles adapted by Frank McGuinness Ÿ Directed by Sheila Daniels

January 7-31, 2010

The Greek wellspring for all revenge stories. Treachery and murder line the corridors where Electra mourns the brutal murder of her father by her adulterous mother, Clytemnestra. Grief-stricken and bent on retribution, Electra awaits her brother's return in order to enact her fervent quest for justice. Filled with 90-minutes of raw emotions, this startling family tragedy will leave you shocked, dazed, and breathless for more.

The Two Gentlemen of Verona

By William Shakespeare Ÿ Directed by Marcus Goodwin

March 18-April 11, 2010

Everything you want in a romantic comedy: moony and misguided guys, smart and resourceful gals, a road trip, and a funny bit with a dog. Fickle Proteus has dropped his gal, and he and Valentine stumble over themselves trying to court the beautiful Sylvia. Now it's up to plucky Julia to plot a plan to win back her wayward beau. This comic tale of wandering hearts will surely capture yours!

Henry V

By William Shakespeare Ÿ Directed by Russ Banham

April 15-May 9, 2010

Henry V is the quintessential saga about inspired leadership and a band of brothers who triumph against all odds. Newly crowned, King Henry faces his first major challenge against the mighty French army. A hasty invasion leads to a long hard siege. Trapped and at the point of near disaster, Henry rallies his troops with his St. Crispin's Day speech to prepare for one last heroic battle. Henry V follows the epic tale of Prince Hal started in Henry IV (Seattle Shakespeare Company Fall 2008).

Fall Workshop Presentation

I Always Write of You

Music by David Duvall

October 25, 26, 27

Taking inspiration from Shakespeare's sonnets, this eclectic cabaret runs the gamut of musical styles from Big Band Swing to Brazilian Bossa Nova and everything in between. Seattle Shakespeare Company will develop this new musical piece in workshop form and then present three public performances.

On Tour Spring 2010

A Midsummer Night's Dream

By William Shakespeare Ÿ Directed by George Mount

Public performance at the Center House Theatre March 21

Fly off to the fairy kingdom for a romantic adventure. Two pairs of mixed up lovers find their way through the forest while the fairy queen's heart is captured by an unlikely suitor. Utilizing seven actors and puppets, this production of Shakespeare's most popular comedy muddles love and magic to create a delightful 90 minute confection for all.

Romeo and Juliet

By William Shakespeare Ÿ Directed by George Mount

In the midst of an historical bitter feud, passionate young love emerges. Defying their parents' wishes Romeo and Juliet marry and plot to run away together, only to be thwarted at every turn. With five actors brandishing swords poised for actions, this 90 minute drama is a swashbuckling romance and the greatest love story ever told.

All dates, plays and artists are subject to change.

eason Ticket Packages and Single Tickets

Season tickets subscription packages are now on sale and range from $54 to $132 for all four main stage productions. Season ticket subscription packages can be purchased by calling the ticket office at (206) 733-8222. Single tickets will be on sale in October. Seattle Shakespeare Company performs at Center House Theatre at Seattle Center .