Much Ado
A Summer with a Repertory Theater Company
Much Ado, written by award-winning journalist Michael Lenehan, gives readers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the lauded American Players Theatre’s 2014 production of William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.
Lenehan weaves together firsthand observations and literary analysis with interviews with key members of the APT’s artistic ensemble and production staff, painting a remarkable portrait of one of our most treasured artistic institutions.
This free classroom guide is designed for educators working with students in grades 9 through 12 and can be used in settings such as schools, church groups, or after school programs. It includes:
- A core lesson plan
- Writing topics and creative connections
- Social and emotional learning connections
- Suggestions for further reading
- Connections to current educational standards
- An assessment for learners with answer key
Praise for MUCH ADO
“He shows us with rare clarity how a professional company prepares a production. . . . A series of bright, clear photographs of what the author saw when he pulled aside the curtain in a Wisconsin Oz. ” —Kirkus Reviews
“An in-depth and endearing profile of the American Players Theatre.” —Publishers Weekly
“Avid theatergoers and those who want to know more about APT will find this behind-the-scenes look, with its affectionate portrayal of the frenzy and magic of theater, engaging and insightful.” —Booklist
“Very smart. . . . A fascinating study of stagecraft.” —Chicago Reader
“A wonderfully inspiring book for performing arts lovers in general and theatre people in particular. It’s good for us all to be reminded that joyously creative greatness is not the sole property of two coasts and a few mega-cities somewhere in between.” —Theater Jones
“Written in clear, accessible prose and takes nothing for granted. One need not be an APT fan, Bard lover or theater geek to enjoy it (although all will). . . . It’s nice to see a good book make so much ado about the many magicians bringing those moments to life.” —Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
“When Lenehan takes the time to probe deeper, the book is at its best. . . . an impressive assortment of information and backstage tidbits that give his readers a sense that, yes, there is much ado when it comes to mounting a stage production of this size and caliber.” —TruthDig
“With a warm, knowing tone, he relates the ensemble’s collaborative decision-making process as the members come together to perform one of the Bard’s greatest comedies. . . . Lenehan’s passion infuses this short, smart, and sweet book.” —National Book Review