Shakespeare Theatre Co. Presents its Adaptation of 'The Alchemist'

A rarely-produced yet highly-influention play from the late 1500s is being resurrected by the Shakespeare Theatre Company.

The company is presenting its version of British playwright Ben Jonson’s "The Alchemist," centering around a conman artist and his victims.

One of the first plays to be produced by the King's Men -- previously known as Lord Chamberlin's Men -- "The Alchemist" follows the merchant Loveless who flees London to avoid the scourge of the plague.

Things start getting wacky as Loveless' butler schemes with a con man and a prostitute to make some serious cash quick. The production is hailed as being universal in its relevance to human greed and gullibility.

Performances start Aug. 6, and take place at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, located at 36 Madison Avenue in Madison.

Tickets are $25 for all preview performances. Tickets are $32 for regular performances. Student rush tickets are $15 for all performances and available 30 minutes before showtime with a valid student ID.

Shows are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30 p.m., and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Matinees are also available Saturday and Sundays at 2 p.m.

For tickets, interested persons may contact the box office by phone at 973-408-5600 or visit the Shakespeare Theatre Company website.