Simpson Productions The Two Gentlemen of Verona Opens November 20

Love, ambition, betrayal, jazz, and a dog come together as Simpson Productions continues its 2026–27 season with William Shakespeare’s The Two Gentlemen of Verona, directed by Jennifer Nostrala, Professor of Theatre Arts. Performances run November 20–22 in the Blank Performing Arts Center at Simpson College.

Two best friends, Valentine and Proteus, leave their small hometown for the bright lights and 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 scene. Valentine finds success at the Imperial Court, a bustling nightclub, and falls for Sylvia. But when Proteus arrives, friendship takes a backseat to desire. Despite being in love with Julia back home, Proteus sets his sights on Sylvia, setting off a tangled chain of romantic complications, disguises, and shifting loyalties.

This production reimagines Shakespeare’s comedy as a coming-of-age story about friendship, identity, and the consequences of growing up. With women’s rights gaining momentum and a new generation challenging old expectations, the play also asks questions about who gets to make choices—and who gets to make them for others.

In addition to our regular performances, we will welcome over 275 high school students and teachers for our 29th High School Theatre Festival, Monday, November 23.

Performances are in Blank Performing Arts Center at Simpson College on November 20-21 at 7:30 p.m. and November 22 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and non-Simpson students, and free for Simpson students and employees with IDs.

Reserve your tickets today https://events.humanitix.com/host/simpson-productions