Social media twist brings ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ into the modern age

Flathead High School Theatre spills the tea on relationships in Shakespeare's "Much About Nothing" on April 27, 28 and 29.  

Written in 1598–1599, “Much Ado About Nothing” follows two contrasting couples: the witty, combative Benedick and Beatrice, and the young lovers Claudio and Hero, whose romance is threatened by deception and jealousy. Set in Italy, the play blends romance, humor, and intrigue as it explores the tangled relationships of two very different couples.  

At its core, the play examines themes of love, honor, trust and the destructive power of rumor and misunderstanding. The production incorporates technology as a modern twist to highlight the play’s themes of gossip and miscommunication. A four-sided Jumbotron will display social media-style notifications, photos, and rumors in real time as characters interact with their phones on stage — bringing a contemporary lens to Shakespeare’s centuries-old story.   

“The plot is full of ‘he said, she said’ twists and turns all in the hopes of matchmaking and love,” director Jen Stebbins said. “And, because of the rumor-like and misunderstanding nature of ‘Much Ado,' I decided to use social media as our theme. We created a pretend app called tweet’ith to convey the story through social media and to push the story forward. We are setting the play in modern Italy and having fun with bright colors, modern music and LED lights.”   

Filled with mismatched lovers, scheming villains, bumbling constables and signature Shakespearean humor, “Much Ado About Nothing” offers both comedy and commentary. Benedick and Beatrice’s witty exchanges gradually give way to genuine affection, while Claudio and Hero’s relationship is tested by betrayal and doubt. The villainous Don Johnna drives the conflict, creating a fast-paced and engaging experience full of unfolding complications.  

“Our most important goal is to create a story the audience will enjoy,” Stebbins said. “The students are working very hard to understand the Shakespearean language so that they can deliver their lines effectively and clearly communicate the misunderstanding and humor intended in the text.”  

The production process began six weeks ago with auditions. All students were invited to participate, bringing together a diverse group ranging in age and acting experience.

“It’s a vulnerable thing to be on stage in front of peers and they respect and understand that for each other,” Stebbins said.  

The cast includes Helena Pershall, Caleb O’Connell, Bronson Willcut, Abigail O’Connell, Audrey Cozad, Lincoln McElwain, AJ Mannon, Taw Thomas, Jackson Tanner, Alexa Correll, Jacob Braach, Emmah Sawyer, Keelan Moore, Layna Astley, Charlie Adamson, Tatum McGuire, Kirah Kniffin, Lynn Beisel and Mia Martinez.  

The tech crew includes Adalicia O’Brien, Matthew Ottman, Colin Lincoln, Jacob Linden, Cosmo DeYoung, Teegan O’Donnell, Vanessa Foultner, Hunter Mitchell, CeCe Carter, Jolee Pitts, Camilla Olmsted, Myla Johnson, Teyvia Davis, Kinnerly Fuller, Akaiyan Fuller, Madelynn Danford-Komenda, Maddie Simms, Lev Strong and Felicia Nicklaus.  

Performances start at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theater at the high school, 644 Fourth Ave. W, Kalispell.  

Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children, students and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased online at GoFan.co, in the high school main office, or at Photo Video Plus located at 284 Fourth Ave. W. In Kalispell or at the door the night of performances.