The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ)'s summer offering is The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again]. It is a fast paced, high energy, and humorous presentation of the works of The Bard.
The STNJ website describes the show as:
“All 37 Plays in 99 Minutes!”
Fasten your seat belts for a high-energy, slapstick rollercoaster ride through Shakespeare’s entire canon! Three madcap actors scamper their hapless way through all the comedies, tragedies, histories, and romances in one hysterical, fast-paced, and irreverent evening that will leave you rolling in the aisles with laughter.
I wanted to participate in the special Food Drive at the first preview performance so I went ahead and attended the show that night. It was very enjoyable to watch the play because it is very funny and an interesting romp through much of the Shakespeare catalog. I wish I could have seen this play when I took my Shakespeare class in college because it would have helped me better understand all that was there from the Bard.
Different this summer for STNJ is that this play is in the air conditioned Kirby Theatre rather than outdoors. There is a certain charm to seeing Shakespeare outside in the summer, but this allows you to escape the heat and enjoy a first rate show!
Kayla Ryan Walsh giving some funny moments with a kitchen analogy – Photo from STNJ
How it was Written and Who Acts in It
The original version was written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield. It was performed a number of years ago at STNJ. The new revisions are by Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield.
Before the play even beings, your program sets that humorous tone: It lists the TIME: Just enough and then PLACE: Madison, NJ duh
Only three actors are in the play and they cover a number of different parts. The team of three includes Ty Lane, Patrick Toon, and Kayla Ryan Walsh. I would like to know their secret for how they are able to work through the entire show without collapsing! Their energy level is incredible. They are either on stage, or backstage changing costumes, or zooming down the side isles.In a word, the cast is amazing.
The show is directed by Jeffrey M. Bender. Mr. Bender was in that previous production of The Complete Works. In fact, in his Director’s Notes in the program, he writes that it was “truly the most rewarding theatrical experience of my life.” He also recounts that he proposed to his wife on opening night. That alone gives you some idea of how special this show is! Mr. Bender does a very fine job of bringing all the important elements of this show together. Especially impressive is the way he works with the three actors to bring out special characteristics of each one’s approach to humor.
Kayla Ryan Walsh and Ty Lane in one of their many costume changes. Photo from STNJ
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Now Extended
Due to popular demand, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again] has extended its run! Now you can enjoy this show from July 9 – August 3rd, 2025.
Purchase tickets online at ShakespeareNJ.org.
Patrick Toon gives grand opening remarks to the audience (amongst other things!)
In addition to the show, STNJ is offering a nice variety of events on show days. These events do a wonderful job of creating a community within the theater.
Not shown on this list is the gallery available right in the Kirby Theater. Check with an usher for more information.
Special Events
* “Pay What You CAN” Food Drive — Wednesday, July 9th starting at 7:00 p.m.: Bring two canned goods and get $10 admission.
* Opening Night — Saturday, July 12th at 7:30 p.m.: Celebrate with champagne toast at intermission and a post-show reception.
* Symposium — Tuesday, July 15th following performance: Engage with the cast during a lively post-show chat.
* Touch Tour — Wednesday, July 16th starting at 1:00 p.m.: Interact with certain props, costumes, and set pieces before the performance, designed for patrons with additional needs.
* Know-the-Show Series & Closed-Captioning — Thursday, July 17th starting at 6:45 p.m.: Learn from the Artistic Team prior to the show. Closed-captioning available.
* Storefront To Stage — Friday, July 18th starting at 6:30 p.m.: Connect with your local businesses before the show and during intermission.
* Symposium — Saturday, July 19th following matinee performance: Engage with the cast during a lively post-show chat.
* Ice Cream Social — Wednesday, July 23rd starting at 6:30 p.m.: Join us for a fun and yummy pre-show event!
* Sensory Seminar & Audio-Described Performance — Thursday, July 24th starting at 6:30 p.m.: Get a hands-on experience at the Theatre, designed for Blind/low-vision patrons.
* Hobnob & Hang — Friday, July 25th following performance: Mix and mingle with fellow theatre lovers after the show!
• Symposium — Saturday, July 26th following matinee performance: Engage with the cast during a lively post-show chat.
