'The Comedy of Errors' at Alchemy Theatre Company

OC Theatre Guild
Jul 9
4 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

Mistaken identities, outrageous misunderstandings, and double the trouble in Shakespeare’s funniest wild ride.

From left, Jonah Camacho and Jonathan Herrera. Photo courtesy of Katelyn Abaya

By Anne Reid

“The Comedy of Errors” is set in the ancient city of Ephesus and tells the story of two sets of twins separated at birth. The story centers around Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio, who arrive in town unaware that their long-lost twins-- also named Antipholus and Dromio-- are already living there. What follows is a hilarious whirlwind of mishaps involving mistaken identities, wrongful beatings, a near-seduction, the arrest of Antipholus of Ephesus, and false accusations of infidelity, theft, madness, and demonic possession, as the citizens of Ephesus confuse the visiting twins for their local counterparts.

For director Loralee Barlow-Boyes, this classic Shakespearean farce was the perfect vehicle for Alchemy’s favorite summer tradition. “With an annual event like that, we’ve worked our way through most of the comedies over the years,” she said. “Now we get to revisit them and do it in a new and different way.”

Barlow-Boyes envisioned a Mediterranean-inspired setting that would shine under the stars. That vision was brought to life by an expert design team. Scenic designer Liz Doubrovsky created a full set with ancient Greco-Roman flair-- complete with arches, pillars, and textured stonework-- that transports the audience straight back to Ephesus. Jim Lowe led set construction, and Brittany Cotter’s scenic painting added rich detail and depth to the vibrant onstage world. “The set feels so grounded in history, but playful enough to support the wild comedy of the piece,” said Barlow-Boyes.

From left, Brianna Diiorio and Katie Orr. Photo courtesy of Katelyn Abaya

Costume designer Hayley Rametta complemented the Mediterranean theme with colorful, flowing garments that evoke the ancient world while remaining practical for warm outdoor evenings. “The costumes have a lightness and movement to them that helps the energy of the show,” Barlow-Boyes explained. “They reflect the atmosphere of summer while staying true to the period's inspiration.”

The choice of venue-- the beautiful open-air lawn outside the Yorba Linda Cultural Arts Center-- adds a sense of magic and intimacy to the performance. “It is really very picturesque when the sun goes down and you can sit under golden string lights and stars,” Barlow-Boyes noted. “Community theater does not exist without a community to serve, and we can’t wait to bring this show to Yorba Linda and the surrounding areas.”

Behind the scenes, producer Katelyn Abaya helped bring this vision to life. “Producers are in charge of finding the people in order for a production to even happen,” she explained. “We work on shows for months before they open.” With her background in event photography and a deep appreciation for storytelling, Abaya brings both logistical precision and an artistic eye to the production. “Everyone should be able to have a visual archive of themselves doing what they love,” she said. “That’s why I do what I do.”

Abaya noted that while this show has been staged by Alchemy before, this is a new version of “The Comedy of Errors” -- a fresh approach tailored to a family-friendly, picnic-on-the-lawn setting. “Since this is the shortest Shakespeare play, it’s easy viewing for a family outing, date night, or solo excursion.”

From left, Jonah Camacho, Brianna Diiorio, Jonathan Herrera and Katie Orr. Photo courtesy of Katelyn Abaya

Casting presented a unique challenge, as the production called for two sets of look-alike characters-- fraternal twins each played by different male and female actors. While the actors do closely resemble each other, instead of relying solely on physical likeness, Barlow-Boyes leaned into energy and chemistry. “We ended up gathering a cast that could span the wide range of highs and lows the story calls for,” she said. “What’s really beautiful about directing is that you can leave little fingerprints of yourself on every character, and not just one.”

Alchemy’s approach is rooted in collaboration and opportunity. “It was a company decision to have me direct,” Barlow-Boyes said. “It’s really important to us that company members get to work in creative positions they don’t always get to explore.” Having made her directorial debut with Romeo and Juliet in 2018, Barlow-Boyes has a special connection to Shakespeare and the transformative power of live theater.

As the story unfolds, every character finds themselves both right and wrong, confused, deceived, and ultimately redeemed. “That’s what makes the conclusion so satisfying,” she said. It’s a comedy that reveals the fragility of identity and the resilience of love and family-- while keeping the audience in stitches.

From left: Jonathan Herrera and Natalie Kathleen. Photo courtesy of Katelyn Abaya

At its core, this production reflects Alchemy Theatre’s mission: to make theater accessible, engaging, and deeply rooted in community. “We’re a nonprofit company known for Summer Shakespeare,” said Abaya, “but we also enjoy putting on lesser-known shows and original works.”

Whether you're a Shakespeare aficionado or just looking for a warm summer evening of laughter, “The Comedy of Errors” promises a whimsical escape. Bring a blanket, grab a snack, and settle in for a timeless tale told with heart and humor.