Chris Hunter plays “Francis Ford” in SHAKESPEARE IN THE HILLS’ The Merry Wives of Windsor returning this Friday, August 2nd, for its closing weekend at the Laguna Hills Community Center.
What’s challenging about bringing this script to life?
Trying to bring Shakespeare’s dialogue into a 1990’s sitcom but I suppose it adds to the humor of it.
How is this production bringing something new to this story?
We are taking a sitcom spin on this show which brings a fresh flavor to Shakespeare. You will get to enjoy some familiar moments from shows you’ve grown up with.
What’s going to surprise people about this show? All the FRIENDS references we have snuck in. Try to keep count if you can!
Call someone out by name: who must come see this production?
My Fiancee Caitlin Schafer.
How is this character like you? Different?
My character is a schemer. He likes to plan and surprise which I can relate to but he does it out of jealousy and I do it out of fun
What do you love and/or hate about this character?
I hate how jealous he can be but I love playing up the crazy with him.
What’s the biggest challenge about taking on this role?
Getting into the mindset of crazed jealous lunatic.
Besides yourself, what celebrity would you like to see tackle this character?
This may be on the nose but: Matthew Perry.
Without giving anything away, what’s your favorite line of dialogue?
“Set down the basket, villains!”
If you could play any other character in this show, who would it be?
Probably Caius the French Doctor.
When did you first perform?
Way back in middle school on Catalina Island.
Besides this one, what’s your favorite stage show?
It’s so hard to choose! Maybe Phantom of the Opera.
What’s your perfect Sunday afternoon look like?
I’d be on a tropical beach with my fiancee with mango smoothies.
What do you do when you’re not doing theatre?
Honestly, I’m working when I’m not acting.
If you had a magic wand, what show would you do next?
A stage production of the Greatest Showman where I play P.T. Barnum.
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage?
I take a deep breath and let the character take over. His history, his memories and his thoughts direct my actions on stage.
Actor’s Bio: Chris Hunter, “Francis Ford”
Chris hasn’t been on stage for about 2 years and but is happy to be back. His past few shows have been with OTE and it is really an honor to work with people who love their art with such a passion. When he is not acting he is working for the Cities of Lake Forest and Laguna Hills in the parks and recreation/community Services department. He loves his work and he hopes to do it for a very long time. His interests include music, theater, any Disney owned franchise, gaming and of course, his wonderful amazing fiancee Caitlin.
SHOW INFORMATION:
“O powerful Love, that in some respects makes a beast a man, in some other a man a beast.”
This summer, join SHAKESPEARE IN THE HILLS for one of Shakespeare’s most hilarious comedies, The Merry Wives of Windsor.
Sir John Falstaff and his entourage are wearing out their welcome in Windsor. The city isn’t big enough for his antics and appetites, especially as he sets about improving his financial situation by wooing Mistress Page and Mistress Ford. Meanwhile, Mistress Page’s lovely daughter, Anne, is under romantic siege from several local admirers. Double-meanings, disguises and dirty laundry abound as the men try to get what they want, but it’s the women of Windsor who pull the strings in this story…
Originally set in Shakespeare’s native land and time, this comedy shares traditions with today’s well-loved sitcoms. With its dexterous mingling of verbal and physical humor, we’ve brought it into the era of 90’s television, bringing elements from the show “Friends” and many more!
Bring a blanket or your low-lying beach chair, bring your meal and make it a picnic event for SHAKESPEARE IN THE HILLS’ outdoor performance presented by On The Edge Theatre Productions.
All performances are held at the Laguna Hills Community Center & Sports Complex’s Gazebo and Town Green, 25555 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653.
Snacks and refreshments will be available for purchase at this family event.
Performances @ 7 pm, July 19 & 20th, 26th & 27th, and August 2nd & 3rd. Tickets $10
Age 12 and under free. All participants of age 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets are sold (cash only) on the day of the show. You may also purchase your ticket early online (class registration ). No refunds or transfers for this event. Call 949-707-2680 for more information.
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