The Boulevard Ensemble Theatre is taking Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" from the 16th century to the present by setting it in an arts academy and adding a new role.

"It's a modern concept due to the economic restraints that plague the small theater, the non-profit theater," said Boulevard Artistic Director Mark Bucher. "So often the classic needs to be rethought or else you'd need 13 period costumes.

"It's fun to examine if Shakespeare's wit and comedy play to a modern audience" he said.

Lindsay Nylen, the production's stage manager, said the play's modern setting will offer plenty of familiar sights for patrons.

"Our concept is in a modern day theatre school, so all the cast members have dual roles," she said. "It sets the tone. It's a classroom atmosphere and the costumes are all blue jeans, turtle necks — everything is modern — and even the delivery is kind of modern."

One unique twist to the Boulevard's production of "Twelfth Night" is the role of auditioner. The theatre is looking for student talent to fill the position. There are 17 performances, and each night a new auditioner will recite one of Shakespeare's sonnets.

The auditioners really didn't have to audition since the "Twelfth Night" performance is like an audition, Nylen said. The theatre hopes there will be critics and other theatre bigwigs in the audience to take a look at the auditioners, Nylen said.

"These people get a chance to perform in front of people who may think they can use them for a role," Nylen said.

Bucher said there are also several reasons for Marquette students to see the play.

"We have $5 off our standard price for students (and) it's a great way to see a classic in a modern concept," he said. "The theater has only 50 seats which draws you and is intimate and very direct."

The Boulevard Ensemble Theatre, 2252 South Kinnickinnic Ave., premieres "Twelfth Night" Dec. 15. It runs through Jan. 9. There may be positions open for the role of auditioner. More information is available by calling 744-5757.

This article appeared in The Marquette Tribune on Dec. 9 2004.