Much Ado Out West
Pedro, Ben and Claude discover that while they've been away at the Civil War, Betty and the other womenfolk have been doing all of the roping and ranching. This Western romp is inspired from Shakespeare's hilarious battle-of-the-sexes romantic comedy, "Much Ado About Nothing." Despite how much the cowpokes and the ladies of the ranch taunt each other, love seems to be in the air. Claude falls head over heels in love with Winny, a lovely Southern belle, but Calamity Jane, a rambunctious tomboy, secretly longs for Claude's affections and is bent on stirring up a big bowl of trouble when she doesn't get her way. Meanwhile, Ben and Betty are arch-rivals, only happy when they are insulting each other...or is it just their way of masking their deeply guarded feelings for one another? This easy-to-produce, fun-to-perform show is filled with witty, Western-flavored dialogue, Shakespearian twists and turns, and lots of wild and untamed characters just waiting to come to life on your stage.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
PLAYWRIGHT WADE BRADFORD
TALKS ABOUT "MUCH ADO OUT WEST"
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS PLAY?
A: I've always loved cowboys. I love the playful yet straightforward way Western folk communicate. And of course, as the title suggests, I was inspired by Shakespeare's classic comedy "Much Ado About Nothing." Benny and Betty are perfect characters for a cowboy story they exemplify the feisty spirit of the Old West.
Q: WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OR LINE IN THE PLAY? WHY?
A: Hmmm. I would have to say when Benny is tricked by his friends. In just a few pages he goes from arrogant bachelor to love-struck fool. It's a fun and fast transformation.
Q: WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTER AND WHY?
A: I rather like Drake Turnabout. He's an infamous cattle rustler who has stolen hundreds of cattle. But he's also an ex-accountant not to mention a devoted vegetarian. He's a complex guy, really.
Q: WHAT DID YOU TRY TO ACHIEVE WITH THIS PLAY?
A: Ever since reading G. B. Shaw's "Man and Superman," I've been interested in a classic-styled "Battle of the Sexes" comedy. Hopefully, this play highlights the hilarious ways in which men and women often misunderstand one another.
Q: ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SAY ABOUT IT?
A: This play offers a lot of room for additional cast members. I've tried to create a lot of interesting supporting characters, especially strong female roles. I think a good director and cast could have a terrific time making each character, whether minor or principle, truly unique and fun to watch. And while I'm at it, I'd like to thank all of the teachers, directors, cast and crew members who have been a part of my shows over the years. It's been wonderful knowing that you talented people are out there bringing the plays of Eldridge Publishing to life. Thank you all!