PROVO — Utah’s own Grassroots Shakespeare Company brought their A-game to their performance of The Comedy of Errors. Priding themselves on doing “Shakespeare the way that Shakespeare did Shakespeare,” this rambunctious troupe of thespians collaborates on every element of the production—casting, costuming, and staging—all without a director. After voting as a cast to determine roles, each actor is responsible for memorizing their part and gathering their own costumes and props. They rehearse just a few times together to map out staging and interactions, resulting in chaotic spontaneity and a surprisingly polished show.
The Comedy of Errors follows the misadventures of two sets of identical twins separated at birth: Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio of Syracuse, and Antipholus of Ephesus with his servant Dromio of Ephesus. When the pairs are unknowingly reunited in adulthood, a whirlwind of hilarious mix-ups and mistaken identities ensues.
Jack Bell and Alyssa Vaughn gave standout performances as the two Dromio’s. With sharp comedic timing and brilliant physical comedy, they kept the audience roaring with laughter. A few examples include Bell’s delivery of the line describing the kitchen maid as “spherical, like a globe” which had the crowd in stitches, and later Vaughn sparked belly laughs across the park with her antics such as when she repeatedly crouched down, patting her backside.
Bell and Vaughn played perfectly off the two Antipholuses, performed by Truman Christensen and November Hunt, who excelled at breaking the fourth wall by engaging the audience and reacting to their input with theatrical flair.
The Comedy of Errors performed by Grassroots Shakespeare Company at parks across the Wasatch Front through July 7, 2025. Photo taken by Mark Brown.
The cast fully embraced the delightful chaos, with a visible camaraderie that allowed them to anticipate each other’s moves and build on the humor in real time. Even with the occasional flubbed line, they stayed in character and kept the energy high. A highlight moment was the “Scooby-Doo reveal” when Elizabeth Moulton’s character, initially appearing as a nun, discloses that she is actually Emilia, the twins’ long-lost mother—sending shockwaves across the audience. And Max Rhineer’s portrayal of Luciana—complete with a dramatically hiked skirt for an absurd “birthing” scene—was a comedic gem.
The set was simple but effective: a stage built on wooden barrels with trapdoors and secret listening spots, evoking the true spirit of Elizabethan theater. Props were minimal but hilarious—like a “mighty rock” barely a few inches wide and a pool noodle doubling as a jousting lance. Costumes ranged wildly, from flowing capes to patent leather platform boots, adding to the playful atmosphere.
Audience participation was encouraged and enthusiastically embraced. Despite the lack of microphones or a sound system, each player did a great job of projecting with clarity. The actors’ annunciation and dramatic delivery made Shakespeare’s prose surprisingly accessible. The intimate park setting, with spectators lounging on blankets and camp chairs, added to the charm.
The Comedy of Errors performed by Grassroots Shakespeare Company at parks across the Wasatch Front through July 7, 2025. Photo taken by Mark Brown.
Musical accompaniment from Gary Argyle, who strummed his guitar throughout the entire performance, and Chase Schetselaar on violin, enhanced the show. The sound team’s well-timed effects also elevated the overall experience.
Grassroots Shakespeare Company is performing The Comedy of Errors and Romeo & Juliet throughout the summer at various parks along the Wasatch Front. Each show is free to attend, with opportunities to donate or purchase merchandise at the end. It’s a perfect night out for families, friends, or anyone craving lively entertainment.
The main show runs just over an hour, but arrive early for the 30-minute preshow. The full cast takes the stage to perform high-energy musical numbers with an assortment of fun instruments, including a banjo, tambourine, guitar, violin, and a melodica. Audience members were invited to join in as they covered “Grace Kelly” by Mika then rocked songs by Jimmy Eat World and Spin Doctors. During the preshow, the players delighted the crowd with “pop sonnets,” cleverly transforming pop lyrics into Shakespearean verse. It was a total hoot.
This performance of The Comedy of Errors was an enjoyable reminder of theater’s power to entertain and engage, even on a small scale. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication local theater groups put in to create memorable experiences for both the spectators and participants alike. Supporting Grassroots Shakespeare Company and their future productions is highly encouraged.
