Columbia Presents Shakespeare
Much Ado About Nothing
William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing brings wit, romance, and mistaken impressions together in a lively comedy. At its center are Beatrice and Benedick, sharp-tongued companions whose spirited exchanges conceal a growing affection, alongside the younger lovers Hero and Claudio.
In this radio presentation, Shakespeare’s play is carried by spoken performance, with dialogue and dramatic scenes bringing its courtship, schemes, and misunderstandings to the listener. The comedy turns on overheard conversations and deliberate matchmaking, as friends try to draw Beatrice and Benedick together while Claudio and Hero face a more serious test of trust.
The result balances sparkling verbal humor with moments of tension and tenderness. Its appeal lies in the contrast between Beatrice and Benedick’s playful sparring and the complications surrounding Hero and Claudio, all unfolding through Shakespeare’s lively language.
This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.