Theater News

Billy Crystal, Tom Hanks, William Shatner, Rita Wilson to Participate in Simply Shakespeare Reading

William Shatner
William Shatner
(© Tristan Fuge)

Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson will co-chair and perform in The Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles’ 22nd annual Simply Shakespeare reading of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, to be held at the Freud Playhouse on September 27.

In addition to the famous married couple, the star-studded reading will also feature such notables as Cedric the Entertainer, Billy Crystal, Paul Dooley, Topher Grace, Gillian Jacobs, Eddie Redmayne, William Shatner, Martin Short, Olivia Thirlby, and Alan Tudyk.

This 1960’s-set adaptation of Shakespeare’s play includes iconic music of the era, and will be directed by SCLA’s Artistic Director Ben Donenberg.

All proceeds from the reading will support The SCLA and its arts based veterans employment and youth employment programs for inner-city youth, arts education in local schools, and professional union contracted productions.

For more information and Simply Shakespeare tickets, visit www.ShakespeareCenter.org.