NEWBERG, Ore. — Penguin Productions will open its latest summer production, Upon the King, on Thursday, July 24, at the 5G’s Ranch in Newberg.
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The play, an Oregon premiere, combines scenes and characters from eight of William Shakespeare’s history plays into a single narrative.
The production will run through Aug. 9 with performances on July 24, 25, 26 and Aug. 1, 2, 8 and 9. All shows begin at 7 p.m. at 17530 NE Terry’s Lane.
Described by the company as an action-driven adaptation, Upon the King draws from Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI and Richard III, and follows a century of English monarchy through war, political power struggles and shifting leadership. The script includes depictions of the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of the Roses.
“This adaptation brings Shakespeare’s dynastic saga into sharp focus,” said director Garrett Gibbs. “Through his language we are able to explore what different leaders look like and how it affects the people around them.”
Penguin Productions has added a new sound system for this production, and each performer will have individual microphones. The upgrade is intended to improve accessibility for all audience members, including those who are hard of hearing Gibbs said.
Tickets are available online at the Penguin Productions website or at the venue box office prior to each performance. Student and senior tickets are $15, while general admission tickets are $18.
Penguin Productions is a nonprofit theater company based in the Willamette Valley. Founded in 2017, the company produces professional-level performances with the goal of fostering dialogue and compensating its artists.
The performances will take place outdoors at the company’s summer stage, located in a hazelnut orchard. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic dinners.
Learn more and buy tickets at the Penguin Productions website.
