Actors from the London Stage

UTSA presents British actors in Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure'

(Oct. 8, 2003)--The UTSA Department of English, Classics and Philosophy hosts a return of Actors from the London Stage (AFTLS) Oct. 15, 17 and 18.

The touring ensemble of five British actors will perform William Shakespeare's "Measure for Measure" at 7:30 p.m. October 15, 17 and 18 in the Arts Building Recital Hall on the UTSA 1604 Campus.

Pictured is the "Measure for Measure" company (from left): Matthew Radford, Elizabeth Hurran, John Nettleton, Anna Northam and Stuart Fox. The actors are from such companies as the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Royal National Theatre of Great Britain and Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

The passionate tragicomedy written in 1604 explores sexual morality and abuse of power, using familiar Shakespearean conventions of disguise and mistaken identity. The performers play multiple roles in a production that utilizes an uncut script, simple costumes and minimal scenery with an emphasis on language.

During the week's residency at UTSA, two lecture-recitals also will be presented, free and open to the public. Anna Northam will appear in "Lady Macbeth Speaks" at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, in the Business Building University Room (2.06.04). John Nettleton will present "Charles Dickens in America," based on Dickens' "American Notes," at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 16, also in the University Room.

AFTLS, an international touring theater organization based at the University of Notre Dame, is a unique program that combines the talents of professional actors in performance with a rare opportunity for students to work with them in the classroom. AFTLS residencies have brought Shakespeare to life in classrooms across America for more than 27 years.

The acting company visits selected American universities each year to perform and conduct classes and workshops. The current production is the company's 17th visit to UTSA. The UTSA Friends of Shakespeare and a grant from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts support the AFTLS residency.

Tickets for "Measure for Measure" are $15, $7 for students with I.D., and are available at the UTSA University Center ticket office on the 1604 Campus. All seats are reserved.

For more information, contact Alan Craven at 210-458-4374.