New Production

Political ambition, power, and moral outrage go hand in hand in Measure for Measure, proving that in the 418 years since its first outing that little ever chances when it comes to the injustice engineered by those in charge. A lively subject for this new production for the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre directed by Henry Godinez. With the action moved to 1959 Cuba, the machinations of the Duke and his deputy are laid against the race for power during the turbulent days of the Cuban Revolution.

What is the story?

The story follows government official Angelo, who is charged with erasing the licentiousness that scourges his city's streets. Enforcing strict laws, Angelo's crusade against the wicked steamrolls over the guilty and innocent alike. Caught up in this moral war is Claudio, charged and convicted of sex before marriage even though the act was consensual and with his bride-to-be. When his noviciate nun sister Isabella pleads his case to Angelo, the official shows his true colors and propositions her in exchange for his freedom.