Bethany College’s Drama Club is set to debut a creative take on William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” set in the dynamic atmosphere of a 1990s college campus. Catch this classic romantic comedy at the Steinman Fine Arts Center on Nov. 14, 15, and 16 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on Nov. 17 at 2:30 p.m. 

Bethany’s Drama Club is known for its inventive productions, and this take on “Much Ado About Nothing” is no exception. The play centers around two famous couples: the sharp-tongued Beatrice and Benedick, whose frenemy dynamic keeps everyone entertained, and the sweet yet complicated Hero and Claudio. Set against a bustling university backdrop, the story follows their journey through navigating romance, misunderstandings, and redemption. As club advisor and production director Kaylee A. Nedrow puts it, “Setting the show at Messina University in the ‘90s has created an interesting atmosphere for the cast to play with. The show’s themes and characters are still relevant today, and we feel very honored to be presenting this work here at Bethany.” 

The talented cast, led by Drama Club president Elizabeth Maier ‘26 (Hero), has been rehearsing since September to bring this show to life, joined by an equally dedicated crew. Assistant Director Emilie Butler ‘25 shares, “All the cast members have worked hard and have grown more and more confident in themselves. They should be so proud of their accomplishments.” 

In true Bethany style, the Drama Club has dedicated themselves to making this production accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For Drama Club members, “Much Ado About Nothing” represents a chance to share a piece of classic literature, interpreted in a fresh, relatable way. Maier reflects, “This is an opportunity for us to bring the classics to campus. I think it’s so important to still teach and perform Shakespeare’s works but to also interpret and imagine it differently than what has been done.” 

Tickets are available now for purchase online. Don’t miss out on an evening of wit, charm, and humor that celebrates the talent and creativity of Bethany College’s Drama Club!  

 Cast List: (In order of appearance) 

• Leonato: Dan Harry ‘74 (he/him) 

• Hero: Elizabeth Maier ‘26 (she/her) 

• Beatrice: Daphne Tennant ‘26 (she/her) 

• Margaret: Grace Gatts ‘28 (she/her) 

• Pedra: Tess Feitt ‘27 (she/her) 

• Claudio: Jaimee Vance ‘26 (he/they) 

• Benedick: Roman Hulver ‘25 (he/him) 

• Joan: Maddie McMillion ‘28 (she/her) 

• Borachia: Kia Price ‘27 (she/her) 

• Dogberry: Joseph Koval ‘26 (he/him) 

• Verges: AJ Lowe ‘27 (he/him) 

• Friar Francis: Logan Wagner ‘28 (he/him) 

• Messenger: EJ Poole ‘26 (he/him) 

Crew List: 

• Director: Kaylee A. Nedrow (she/her) 

• Assistant Director: Emilie Butler ‘25 (they/them) 

• Tech Director: Roman Hulver 25 (he/him) 

• Scenic Designer: Kaylee A. Nedrow & Emilie Butler ‘25 

• Lighting Designer: Nataley Kemmer ‘25 (she/her) 

• Stage Manager: Jazmyn Scott ‘27 (she/they) 

• Costume Designer: Bug Nanney ‘27 (they/them) 

• Costume Assistant: Abby Hollister ‘25 (she/her) 

• Sound Designer: Emilie Butler ‘25 (they/them) 

• Properties Manager: Mycha Gamble ‘27 (she/her) 

• Hair and Makeup Manager: Emilie Butler ‘25 (they/them)