NE North Dakota News

The University of North Dakota's Department of Theatre Arts will open its 2025-26 season with the play “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” by Daniel Singer, Jess Winfield, and Adam Long. The production is scheduled to run from October 1 to October 5 at the Burtness Lab Theatre.

Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. from October 1 through October 4, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on October 5. Tickets are priced at $25 for adults and $15 for students, seniors, and military personnel with identification. Student military members can attend free of charge with ID.

This production marks the final set of shows in the historic Burtness Lab Theatre. According to the department, “‘The Complete Works’ is one of the world’s most frequently produced plays and has been translated into several dozen languages. Featured are all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays, meant to be performed in 97 minutes by three actors.”

The show involves a fast-paced approach designed to appeal to both fans and critics of Shakespeare. “Fast-paced, witty and physical, it’s full of laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike,” according to organizers.

James Tweedale serves as guest director and fight choreographer for this production. The cast includes Alexis Mull, Bethany Shipley, and Hannah Scholand. Several UND students are involved in key roles such as stage management, costume design, choreography, props management, technical operations, publicity design, social media coordination, box office management, and backstage support.

UND Theatre faculty expressed anticipation about welcoming audiences: “UND Theatre students, faculty and staff are looking forward to seeing everyone at the show.”