SPICY SHAKESPEARE COMING TO KALAMAZOO  A new Kalamazoo-based professional theatre company, Bare Backstage Productions, will make its debut in February with the Michigan premiere of Fifty Shades of Shakespeare, an hilarious and sexy performance featuring ten of Shakespeare’s steamiest love scenes performed by four actors; and the audience chooses who plays what role each night. This bawdy show blends classic characters with comedic improv to create an experience that is different every time!

Originally developed by Jess Shoemaker and (re)discover theatre, a Chicago theatre company, Fifty Shades of Shakespeare has been received rave reviews for the past three years in Chicago. “We are excited to bring this fun and unique show to Kalamazoo” says Executive Producer Laura Henderson. “Fifty Shades... has something for everybody,” says Director Kevin Dodd, “if you don’t know much Shakespeare, don’t worry. We’re focused on how each scene shows a different aspect of love and relationships; Will supplied the words, we bring the fun.”

Fifty Shades of Shakespeare stars local actors Katherine Harte-DeCoux, Ken Holda, Tanisha Pyron, and Mitch Voss. It is directed by Kevin Dodd and produced by Laura Henderson.

The show premieres at the Kalamazoo State Theatre on Valentine’s Day, February 14, at 7pm, followed by tango lessons and dancing with Erin & Doruk. Tickets are $35 per person at the door, or $60 per couple if purchased by February 13.

Reviews of the Chicago production: "should not be missed...an immersive experience and a fun, relaxing event - you will enjoy 50 Shades of Shakespeare." - Buzz Chicago "pushes the boundaries in its interpretation… [is] consistently entertaining…significant…celebrates sexual freedom and expression" - Edge Chicago

About Bare Backstage Productions: Bare Backstage Productions believes in bringing high quality theatre to new audiences and professional opportunities to performers right here in Michigan, keeping talent in the area. We specialize in flexible, small scale shows that can be produced almost anywhere. www.barebackstage.com

About Erin & Doruk Tango: Erin Malley & Doruk Golcu are an internationally touring teaching couple. Partners on the dance floor and in life, they have been dancing together since 2004. They are known for their smooth dancing, unique musicality, and connection to one another. Erin and Doruk are generous teachers, known for the approachable way that they share their knowledge of both the body in motion and the structure of the dance. They have taught and performed extensively in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Seattle, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, Denver, New Jersey, Connecticut, Michigan, Buenos Aires, Ireland, Portugal, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Istanbul. http://www.erinanddoruktango.com/

For further information on the full tour, and to purchase tickets, click here.