28th Annual Shakespeare Festival Explores Comedic, Dramatic Sides of Romance

This summer is filled with romance — both comedic and dramatic — as the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company performs two of William Shakespeare’s beloved plays: “Twelfth Night” and “Cymbeline.” The comedy “Twelfth Night” kicks off the 28th Annual Shakespeare Festival with performances from June 20 to July 6; “Cymbeline” is being presented July 11 to 27. All performances are at 8 p.m., Friday through Sunday, in Kingsmen Park on the California Lutheran University campus.

“‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Cymbeline’ both date back to the early 1600s, but the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company once again proves that romance is forever,” said Michael J. Arndt, director of the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company and a founding member. “This is the first time  ‘Cymbeline’ is being performed here, so we’re excited to introduce our patrons to this emotive play that involves tragedy, comedy and history.”

In addition to romance, mischief and self-discovery are woven throughout “Twelfth Night.” The play follows Viola, a shipwrecked heroine who disguises herself as a man, only to find herself caught in a hilarious love triangle between the dashing Duke Orsino and the lovestruck Lady Olivia. The play is filled with mischievous pranks, witty wordplay and unexpected reunions

A romantic drama, “Cymbeline” follows Innogen, the daughter of King Cymbeline of Britain, who secretly marries the noble but low-born Posthumus. While enraged, Cymbeline banishes Posthumus, who is deceived into believing Imogen has been unfaithful. The ensuing chain of events involves mistaken identities, disguises, political intrigue and even war between Britain and Rome.

Brett Elliott is directing “Twelfth Night,”  and Jason D. Rennieis directing “Cymbeline.”  Both are long-time actors with Kingsmen and serve as associate artistic directors with the company.

Kingsmen Shakespeare Company is the professional theater company of Cal Lutheran. The nonprofit organization coordinates apprentice programs for professional and aspiring Shakespearean actors, an educational tour program in local schools and summer theater camps for youths. All performances are on the Streeter Stage erected in Kingsmen Park on the Cal Lutheran campus, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. Grounds open at 5:30 p.m. with preshow entertainment at 6:45 p.m. General admission tickets are between $20 and $32. Refreshments are available for purchase at the event, and picnic food can be pre-ordered. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit KingsmenShakespeare.org or call 805-493-3184.