Trying to emulate the great William Shakespeare, they think they have found the formula. However, a soothsayer sees trouble on the horizon.

Fort Dodge’s Comedia Musica Players delves into the work of the Bottom brothers and their unfortunate “Omelet” idea Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 13-15 during the performance of “Something Rotten!”

Nathan Schelle and Samuel Opfer play the lead roles of the brothers. They are joined by their significant others Bea (played by Esther Laupp) and Portia (portrayed by Londyn Jones) with Mr. Shakespeare making an appearance during “Something Rotten!” and being played by Dave Everson.

“With a musical score featuring selections of modern and Shakespeare-era themes, this will be a fun event to highlight our annual production,” said Laupp, Comedia Musica’s board president. “Our group has presented a show a year since 1968, and we look forward to this year’s presentation.”

-Messenger photo by Bill Shea
Nathan Schelle, performing as Nick in “Something Rotten!” , prepares for the upcoming show by Comedia Musica Players.

Started by former Fort Dodge Senior High School choir director Larry Mitchell, the troupe does a show typically every November.

“Something Rotten!” is set for 7 p.m. each evening with a 2 p.m. matinee included Nov. 15 inside the Historic Phillips Auditorium located at 1015 Fifth Ave. N. in Fort Dodge.

“Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students from kindergarten through college age,” Laupp said. “I would add ‘Something Rotten!’ does contain some mild language and innuendos, so parental guidance is suggested.

“We have averaged crowds of 300 per performance in recent years,” she added. “We think being back at the former middle school auditorium for a fourth straight year is a great setting. It was so special to so many people.”

Thirty-five people make up the complete cast. “Something Rotten!” is directed by Alyssa Sparks, with Emily Eastwood as choreographer and Shelly Bottorf handling accompanist duties. A full musical pit, featuring community members directed by Dan Cassady, is also included.

-Messenger photo by Bill Shea
Nick, played by Nathan Schelle, and Bea, played by Esther Laupp, argue during a scene from “Something Rotten!”

“All of our board members will also assist,” Laupp said. “Proceeds from the shows will go back to Comedia Musica, as costs can be high. We also put it towards the next year’s production.”