This November, laughter, love and lively mischief take center stage as the University of Detroit Mercy Theatre Company proudly opens its brand-new Black Box Theatre with a bold and dynamic adaptation of William Shakespeare’s timeless romantic comedy, “Twelfth Night.”
Adapted by acclaimed playwright Marc Palmieri and directed by Detroit Mercy’s own Sarah Hawkins Rusk, this energetic rendition invites audiences to rediscover Shakespeare’s beloved tale of mistaken identity, unexpected affection and the chaotic beauty of love.
Set in the whimsical world of Illyria, “Twelfth Night” follows shipwrecked twins Viola and Sebastian, each believing the other lost at sea. Disguised as a young man named Cesario, Viola becomes entangled in a love triangle involving Duke Orsino and the elusive Countess Olivia, sparking a cascade of confusion and comedy. Meanwhile, the countess’s lively household, featuring the riotous Sir Toby Belch and cunning Maria, wreaks havoc on the stuffy steward Malvolio in a subplot filled with side-splitting deception.
Palmieri’s contemporary adaptation preserves the poetic elegance of Shakespeare’s language while infusing fresh energy and accessibility, promising to engage both seasoned theatergoers and newcomers alike.
This production marks the inaugural performance in Detroit Mercy’s newly unveiled Black Box Theatre, an intimate space designed to give students a space to explore their creativity and showcase their talents. It brings guests closer than ever to the heart of the plays.
Presented through special arrangement with TRW PLAYS, out of New York, this unforgettable “Twelfth Night” promises a theatrical experience that will be brimming with laughter, lyricism and love’s delightful complications.
Performances run Nov. 7, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. The production lasts approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.
Show details:
Nov. 7 - Friends and family night by invitation only.
Nov. 8 - Detroit Mercy Black Box Theatre grand opening celebration by invitation only.
Nov. 9 - Free tickets available to students, faculty and Detroit Mercy staff with a valid ID.
Nov. 14 - Free tickets and talkback for High School Night, with student case and crew for high school students and their families. Email theatre@udmercy.edu or call 313-993-3270 for details and reservations.
Nov. 15 - $10 per ticket for all patrons for Community Night.
Nov. 16 - Tickets are $10-25 for all patrons.
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