Measure for Measure comes to Heidelberg November 9 – 11, 2023

One of William Shakespeare’s famous “problem plays” is about to receive a unique treatment. On November 9-11, 2023, the Heidelberg Department of Theater will present its production of Measure for Measure. I am pleased to provide incidental music for this production; the score will receive its world premiere at these performances in Tiffin, Ohio.

A problem play presents an unusual blend of comedy and darker, psychological drama. Social issues may be the source for at least some of the play’s content. The term was created by scholar F.S. Boas, who applied the term to three Shakespeare projects: All’s Well That Ends Well, Troilus and Cressida, and Measure for Measure. Later scholars have applied this concept to other Shakespeare plays, including The Merchant of Venice and The Winter’s Tale.

Karla Kash, Director of Theatre at Heidelberg, has elected to present this production in a dystopian environment, with a nod to Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and the well-known television series that millions have watched. As a composer my challenge was to serve this unique interpretation while also creating music that could be used for future productions of this play, ones that may choose to go in a different direction.

If you are in the northwest Ohio region, please come to Heidelberg to see this unique presentation of a Shakespeare play. Tickets are available through the Heidelberg Theater: www.gundlachtheater.org, 419-449-2305