For long-time lovers of Shakespeare as well as those less familiar with his works, "Shakespeare’s Passions" promises an exhilarating theatrical experience this summer at the Crossroads Theatre in Walnut Creek.

Directed and adapted by Renee Racan, "Shakespeare’s Passions" is a collection of the Bard’s most passionate and heart-rending works showcasing explosive drama and high conflict. Scenes from "Hamlet","Richard III," "Henry VI", "Two Gentlemen of Verona," "As You Like It" and "Romeo and Juliet" will be performed. Excerpts from "Much Ado About Nothing" provide comic relief between each of the six scenes.

Racan’s debut with CTA comes on the heels of much critical acclaim for her recent production of "Don’t Dress for Dinner" at the Chanticleers Theatre in Castro Valley, which earned several prestigious awards including "Best Director," "Best Actor," "Best Supporting Actress," and "Best Production." She apprenticed with Robert Hamm and assisted in directing "Marvin’s Room" at Ross Valley Players in Marin and "Our Town" at the Altarena Playhouse in Alameda. Racan also directed the critically-acclaimed "Turn of the Screw," in Alameda. Racan is also known for her work as an actress in Los Angeles and the Bay Area appearing in such productions as "Three Tall Women," "Two by Sea" and "Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf."

Shakespeare’s Passions is the second production in CTA’s Charter Season in their new Crossroads Theatre. Performances are at 8 p.m. on August 25 and 31 and September 1, 7-8, 14-15 and 20-22. A 2 p.m. matinee will also be offered on Saturday, September 15. Tickets are $15 per person.

Cast: Sylvia Burboeck, Mason Waller, Katherine Lee, Tom Darci, Bharbara Sinclair-Foxcroft, Durand Garcia, Jodi Feder, Heather O’Brien, Armond Dorsey, Tom Flynn, David Neufeld.