Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The desire to compete with…William Shakespeare?

That’s what “Something Rotten” deals with — and it kicks off this 75th anniversary season for Springfield’s “The Muni.”

“The show is set in 1590’s England — 1594, specifically,” said Jasmine French, who plays “Beatrice Bottom,” on the WTAX Morning Newswatch.  “The main character is Nick Bottom.  It kind of explores a lot of his relationships, but mainly the relationship with his brother.  They are playwrights, and their hate for — mainly Nick’s hate for — Shakespeare.”

“Something Rotten” is mainly the reason Claire Carley, who plays “Portia,” auditioned for a show at The Muni.

“I’ve always just kind of loved how tight-knit The Muni community is.  You always see all the people on the stage at the Muni…in all the other community productions across Springfield.  It’s just a great community to be a part of.  It’s wonderful.”

Performances start Friday night.   Volunteers are also needed for behind the scenes and front-of-house roles as well, from moving set pieces to selling refreshments.