Simpson Productions presents “Two Gentlemen of Verona”

Simpson Performing Arts students are rehearsing daily in preparation for their upcoming production of “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” by William Shakespeare, set to take the stage Nov. 20 to Nov. 22 in Pote Theatre. The modernized adaptation follows Valentine and Proteus, two best friends, who leave their small hometown for the big opportunities of Chicago. It’s 1919, jazz is taking over the city, and both young men are ready to make their mark on the music world. When love enters the scene for the two, it sets off a tangled chain of romantic complications, disguises and shifting loyalties. Uraia Nawaqa, a first-year majoring in theatre arts and music performance, shares his favorite part of playing the lead role of Valentine. “My character at the beginning is very sworn off love,” Nawaqa said. “He’s got that mindset; I’ve got to make it out there in the world. But then he falls in love, and his whole plan changes.

This excerpt comes from the named source. Read the original for the full reporting.