New Production Of Shakespeare's Dark Comedy

Political ambition, power, and moral outrage go hand in hand in Measure for Measure, proving that in the over 400 years since its first outing, little ever changes when it comes to the injustice engineered by those in charge. A lively subject for this new production from the Folger Shakespeare Library, directed by Psalmayene 24. With the action moved to the American South in the 1950s, the machinations of the Duke and his deputy are laid against the race for power during the turbulent days of the Civil Rights Era.

What Is The Story?

The story follows government official Angelo, who is charged with erasing the licentiousness that scourges his city's streets. Enforcing strict laws, Angelo's crusade against the wicked steamrolls over the guilty and innocent alike. Caught up in this moral war is Claudio, charged and convicted of sex before marriage even though the act was consensual and with his bride-to-be. When his novitiate nun sister Isabella pleads his case to Angelo, the official shows his true colors and propositions her in exchange for his freedom.