The Tri-State University Drama Club will put a decidedly modern spin on the works of William Shakespeare with the fall production, “The Compleat Works of Wllm Shkspr (abridged),” on Nov. 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. in the University Center’s new Fabiani Theatre. Admission is free to the community and TSU students.

Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winified, the play incorporates elements of modern entertainment, theater, and performance art into 37 well-known Shakespeare plays. Four friends will rap, cross dress, and do whatever else it takes to elucidate the Shakespeare works in 97 minutes or less, all the while keeping it interesting and entertaining. The play has been described by TSU English professor Timothy Hopp as a “more comic, and less Shakespearean,” experience.

“The Compleat Works of Wllm Shkspr,” directed by Hopp and TSU student Jessie Harkcom, employs a TSU student cast comprised of Caitlin Mata, a first-year computer aided drafting major from Columbia City, Ind.; Andrew Qualtire, a first-year forensic science major from Glendale, Ariz.; and Jordan Rippy, a senior forensic science major from Tipton, Ind. 

While TSU is known for its strong engineering program, it also boasts a strong theatrical heritage due to the efforts of Angola resident Charles Edwin Shank. In 1913, Shank organized the Dramatic Club, which since its origin has produced plays using TSU students of all disciplines. Drama Club is a student-run organization; therefore, students make decisions in all areas of production, from play selection to direction, design, and acting.

For more information on this play and other TSU Drama Club events, contact Hopp at 260.665.4852 or e-mail him at hoppt@tristate.edu.