The Cultch’s Femme Series is currently featuring Shakespeare’s classic comedy Much Ado About Nothing. You might be thinking, as I was, that it’s unlike The Cultch to put on this type of production; but this is not the classic show you know and love: it’s classic chic. Brought to the stage by Classic Chic Productions, Much Ado About Nothing is a bold and playful romp through the extremes of desire and ambition, loyalty and redemption.
Based in Vancouver, the not-for-profit theatre company is known for their all female cast and crew, believing that there are great male and female roles in theatre that appeal to all human beings. By casting women in male parts they are creating a forum for women to explore these possibilities as well as develop their acting, designing and directing skills. It has been the experience of Director Rebecca Patterson “that gender-blind casting speaks to a diverse audience—straight and queer, men and women—and is a true reflection of our complex contemporary community”.
In Much Ado About Nothing, we see female and male roles that are firmly rooted in tradition. However, whether intentionally or not, performing Shakespeare with an all female cast is a delightful play on these gender roles that Shakespeare himself seemed to enjoy, as evident in plays like The Twelfth Night and Macbeth. What’s more, as his plays were originally performed by an all male cast – since women were not allowed in the public sphere – this provides another subtle layer of fun in Classic Chic’s production.
Don’t miss this classic tale with a twist, on now until February 16th. For tickets, visit The Cultch.
By Contributing Writer: Nicole Alivojvodic
ILiveInEastVan.com 
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