Love's Labour's Lost, considered one of Shakespeare's less popular comedic plays, has experienced a resurgence of interest since actor and director Kenneth Branagh adapted the story for a movie musical in 2000. Although the film did not live up to Branagh's successful track record—which includes adaptations of Hamlet and Much Ado About Nothing—the romantic cast of characters in Love's Labour's Lost was reintroduced to the public.

Director Ken Kelleher hopes to win over audiences with an updated version of the story set in Europe between 1958 and 1962.

Bold set designs reflect the pop art movement of the time, while costumes including sharkskin suits and vibrant party dresses would make even Austin Powers proud. As a backdrop for multiple love stories, the strong visual elements complement the witty comedy that makes Love's Labour's Lost light enough for the carefree days of summer but still satisfying under the stars as only Shakespeare can be.

Our heroes, four young men led by the King of Navarre swear off love for three years to concentrate on their studies—that is, until a pretty young princess arrives with a bevy of beautiful ladies in tow. Of course, each young scholar attempts to hide his own romantic distraction from the others and with the help of Vespa-driving clowns steeped in a Fellini-like mood, hilarity ensues.

Audiences have the opportunity to meet and talk with the show's director on Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. at Barnes & Noble, 3600 Stevens Creek Blvd., in San Jose. Kelleher will be on hand to discuss the history, themes, context and motivations of Shakespeare and his diverse characters.

For more information about the Meet the Director event, call 415.422.2222 or 800.978.PLAY. Visit www.sfshakes.org for more information about the Free Shakespeare in the Park series.