In September 2021, one thousand people sat in awe and watched Delaware Shakespeare’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in Rodney Square. This Memorial Day weekend, Del Shakes returns to the famed spot in downtown Wilmington with a sneak peek of the songs from its world premiere Spanish-English musical, “Twelfth Night, O Lo Que Quieras.” 

The free concerts will take place on Saturday, May 28 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 29 at 5 p.m. The event is presented in partnership with the City of Wilmington and Mayor Mike Purzycki. 

Written by Tanaquil Márquez and Liz Filios with contributions by Robi Hager and Ximena Violante, “Twelfth Night, O Lo Que Quieras” is a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s all-time great romantic comedy, “Twelfth Night, or What You Will.” The musical reimagines Viola and Sebastian as Venezuelan immigrants whose shipwreck brings them ashore in the fictional land of Illyria, which bears some resemblance to contemporary America. This bilingual musical will explore the Latin immigrant experience while asking the question, “Can you survive through love?” 

“We had such a great time in Rodney Square last fall,” said producing artistic director David Stradley. “We can’t wait to fill the Square with music this spring and get audiences singing the wonderful songs before sharing the full production this fall as our Community Tour.” 

The Community Tour travels to the full spectrum of humanity in our area, reaching prisons, senior facilities, and other community centers. The Memorial Day weekend concerts will feature a talented ensemble of nine actor-singers, led by musical director Peter Vitale. Returning Del Shakes performers include Izzy Sazak (“Midsummer Mix Tape”), Frank Jimenez (“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”), Ximena Violante (“Holiday Jam Session”), Tai Verley (“Romeo and Juliet”), James Kern (“Shakespeare in Song”), and Jake Blouch (“The Winter’s Tale”). The City of Wilmington’s portable bandwagon will be transformed by a 20-foot-wide backdrop painted by Wilmington artist Nahova. 

“Del Shakes brought magic and love to Rodney Square last fall,” said Tina Betz, director of cultural affairs for the City of Wilmington. “This concert will bring music and love to the kick-off of a great summer of arts experiences in Wilmington.” 

For more information about “Twelfth Night, O Lo Que Quieras” or about Delaware Shakespeare, visit delshakes.org, or email info@delshakes.org. 

Before or after the show, take on dinner at one of these amazing #VisitWilm restaurants located just down the block...