New Hampshire Theatre Project's Senior Youth Repertory Company presents two Shakespeare classics in repertory May 13-22. The Comedy of Errors , believed to be one of the Bard's very first plays, is a zany slapstick farce filled with mistaken identities, elaborate rhyming puns, and an unexpected twist of feminist strength. Performed in traditional Italian Renaissance style, the production features exquisite period costumes by Zhana Morris.

In striking contrast to The Comedy of Errors , The Tempest is Shakespeare's last play and a lyrical script written by a master at his craft. Magically weaving together drama, comedy, pageantry, and some of the Bard's most beloved poetry, The Tempest is a favorite among the classics. With set design by Meghann Beauchamp, lighting design by Quentin Stockwell, and a live musical soundscape by Jose Duque, the Youth Repertory Company's production of The Tempest recalls the magical fantasy style of Cirque du Soleil and Moulin Rouge.

Although the styles of these two productions are quite different, The Tempest and The Comedy of Errors are unique among Shakespeare's plays in that all the action occurs in real time; the audience experiences each event exactly as it unfolds for the characters, becoming completely immersed in the fabulous world of Shakespeare. Performing these plays in repertory also gives Youth Repertory company members the opportunity to play a variety of contrasting roles.