Season 17: What Lies Beneath

Can you keep a secret? There is more, much more, going on in the world around us than anyone realizes.

Think about the world of international and local politics. How often do we get full disclosure about why things occur or who is pulling the strings? Look at the people you love and assume you know best. What do you hide from them in order to protect them from the harsh reality of some ugly truths? What are they, in turn, hiding from you?

Search inside yourself. How often does denial keep us from growing as people? Or how often do we accomplish the impossible because we deny the possibility of failure and choose to believe in hope?

Secrets can be good and bad. The truth is rarely obvious and often hidden. That is a fact of life, whether we are discussing global economics or the realm of our hearts. In our 17th season, we are excited to explore stories where everything is not as it seems, ranging from the obvious shadows of the supernatural with Blithe Spirit and Dracula, to hidden passions in Much Ado About Nothing and Pride and Prejudice. Of course, a season of secrets wouldn't be complete without some of Shakespeare's most devious and delightful characters and plots in Julius Caesar, The Merry Wives of Windsor, King John, and The Two Gentlemen of Verona.

So whether you abhor deceits or relish surprises, you will find a secret worth hearing this season at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company—as we explore what lies beneath our illusory every day.

I look forward to seeing you at the theater.

Brian Isaac Phillips
Artistic Director
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company