In coordination with Tide, its Official Wardrobe Care Partner, Shakespeare in the Park offered a special behind-the-scenes look at the costumes from “Much Ado About Nothing” (June 24-July 6) along with a sneak peek at the costumes for the upcoming “King Lear” (July 22-Aug. 16).
Designed by Tony Lifetime Achievement winner Jane Greenwood, the costumes are managed by Luke McDonough, who’s been working with Shakespeare in the Park for 29 years. His interest, he told us, began after seeing CBS air a performance of, coincidentally, “Much Ado About Nothing” by the Free Shakespeare in the Park Festival. He was just 12 years old. As McDonough will tell you, dreams and career passions really can come true.
Metro was also invited to participate in a blood demonstration with Props Master Jay Duckworth. Don’t worry, “Much Ado About Nothing” is still a comedy — in Shakespearean tradition, there’s no death, and it ends in a wedding. The goriest tragedy from the Bard is “Titus Andronicus,” Duckworth and McDonough agree, but there will definitely be some blood spilled in “King Lear” this summer.
We also walked backstage, past dressing rooms and through the hair, makeup and laundry areas. We went underground through some of the theater’s useful tunnels and even got a look at the stage and set up close. We weren’t allowed to photograph some of the most fun parts of the tour, so you’ll have to get your tickets and see it for yourself.
Here’s our article on how to get free Shakespeare in the Park tickets.
For more theater news, interviews and reviews, follow T. Michelle Murphy on Twitter: @TMichelleMurphy.
