From classroom to stage: Lipscomb theatre community plays key role in Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s ‘The Merry Wives of Windsor’
Catch the production Thursdays through Sundays until Sept. 21
Kim Chaudoin |
Photo: Sammy Hearn
“Better three hours too soon than a minute too late.”
The words of Master Ford from Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor serve as timely advice as the Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s critically acclaimed production, featuring a host of talent from the Lipscomb University community, takes its final bow on Sept. 21.
A significant contingent of Lipscomb theatre faculty, staff, students and alumni are playing key roles both on stage and behind the scenes in the production, held at The Yard at ONEC1TY in Nashville.
Beki Baker
The production is directed by Beki Baker, director of Lipscomb’s School of Theatre and Cinematic Arts. Baker assembled a team rich with Lipscomb connections to bring the classic comedy to life. Rehearsals for the show took place in early August with the production opening on Aug. 21 for its month-long run.
“I'm really proud of directing this fun production and having the opportunity to bring a lot of Lipscomb colleagues, alumni and students with me into the process,” she said.
The Merry Wives of Windsor tells the story of Sir John Falstaff, who schemes to solve his money troubles by wooing the wives of two wealthy merchants. Unbeknownst to him, the women compare notes and hatch a plan of their own, turning the tables in a comedy of disguises, double-dealing and uproarious revenge. At its heart, the play celebrates marriage and the everlasting friendship between two brilliant women.
"The Nashville Shakespeare Festival is honored to continue our partnership with Lipscomb University. This summer’s production of The Merry Wives of Windsor is enriched by the remarkable contributions of Lipscomb faculty, current theatre students and celebrated alumni, all of whom bring their artistry and dedication to the stage," said Jason Spelbring, Nashville Shakespeare Festival artistic director. "Their generosity and commitment to the arts make it possible for us to share Shakespeare’s joy with our Nashville community and to inspire the next generation of theatre artists.”
Photo: Sammy Hearn
Beki Baker, second from left, director of the School of Theatre and Cinematic Arts, with Lipscomb theatre students and alumni on the set of "The Merry Wives of Windsor." Photo: Courtesy Beki Baker
The production has received critical acclaim. The Nashville Scene review praised Baker’s direction, noting, “she leans heavily into the freewheeling humor, allowing the action — and laughs — to flow with almost giddy glee. Baker also makes excellent use of the performance space, creating unexpected opportunities for the actors to interact with audience members without it ever feeling forced.”
Photo: Courtesy Beki Baker
Baker is joined by a deep roster of Lipscomb talent from across the university community.
Faculty and Staff: June Kingsbury (Costume Designer), Andy Bleiler (Scenic Designer), Hendrick Shelton (’20) (Technical Director), Kari Smith (Choreographer) and Scott Baker (Interpreter for the Deaf).
Students: Sh'Ahr Blackburn (Actor), Lin Lescalleet (Wardrobe Head) and Erin Crandall (Wardrobe Crew).
Alumni: Marlee Shelton (’22) (Assistant Stage Manager), Makinley Smith (’25) (Assistant Director), Aubrey Bagley (’24) (Actor), Samantha Scattini (’25) (Actor) and Peyton Lewis (’25) (House Manager).
Performances of The Merry Wives of Windsor continue Thursdays through Sundays until Sept. 21. The production is located at The Yard at ONEC1TY (8 City Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209).
Nightly schedule
5:15 p.m. — Gates open
5:30 p.m. — Insight Lecture Series
6 p.m. — The Tennessean Pre-Show Concert Series
7 p.m. — Performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor
Admission is Pay-What-You-Will, with a $10 suggested donation.