This summer’s free Shakespeare on the Common play — a seasonal tradition that never fails to excite and impress — is unlike any of its 17 predecessors. For starters, the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company-presented production of “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” is Las Vegas-themed.
“The show is set in the Rat Pack ‘60s,” says Peter Cambor, a lead performer in the show. “There’s this lust and treachery in the story that makes it the perfect melting pot of Las Vegas sin.”
Cambor, an American Repertory Theatre graduate, plays Proteus, one of two friends newly arrived in Milan. There, he abandons all morals for the city’s temptations; namely, wealth and women.
In keeping with the Vegas twist, the production features a live jazz band that performs several ‘60s-era tunes.
“It’s really become a musical,” says Cambor. “We’re up there gallivanting around like Sammy Davis, Jr. and Dean Martin. It’s the perfect thing to layer over the show.”
Most Shakespearian actors aren’t tasked with singing. Fortunately, Cambor considers himself a rather talented shower crooner.
“Every guy actor dreams of singing a song like ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’ to some dame,” he says with a laugh.
If you go
July 6 through 28
Boston Common
Free, 617-426-0863
commshakes.org
