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Much Ado
About Nothing

Written by William Shakespeare

Santa Cruz Shakespeare

Santa Cruz, CA

Director: Charles Pasternak

Scenic Design: Michael Schweikardt
Costume Design: Erin Reed Carter

Lighting Design: Marcella Barbeau

Sound Design and Composition: Luke Shepard
July 2026

Photos by Kevin Lohman and Shmuel Thaler

"And of course there must also be a masked ball, thanks to adroit costume designer Erin Reed Carter who outfits the company in black, with red and white trims and accessories. [...] The men in elegant Fred Astaire trousers, women in summery flounces, this company looked terrific dancing to yet another danceable tune whipped up by sound designer and melody guru Luke Shepherd. The charm just didn’t stop."

Much Ado about Much Ado- Christina Waters, Good Times Santa Cruz

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"Michael Schweikardt’s scenic design and Erin Reed Carter’s gorgeous costumes complete this inviting world. The stage gradually fills with color as Carter dresses the company in playful striped bathing costumes, elegant suits, flowing summer dresses with matching parasols, striking red-and-black dinner attire and more. Every scene feels thoughtfully composed, creating a production that is as visually inviting as it is entertaining."

Much Ado About Everything Right’: SC Shakespeare’s perfect summer comedy- Jana Marcus, Lookout Santa Cruz

Photos by Kevin Lohman and Shmuel Thaler

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