The sunset casts silhouettes across the stage as actors portray the punk atmosphere of William Shakespeare?s dark work of art, Measure for Measure. Unlike many of his other pieces, this play focuses on the occasional consequences of love as opposed to the whimsical sensations of affection.

Director Brad Myers of the theater department at California State University, Fresno, presented a modernized version of the play for his students. The shows, performed from Dec. 5-7 and 9-13, portrayed the grunge time period of the 1980s.

Regarded as a problem play, Measure for Measure deals with grave morals and is considered to be neither comedy nor tragedy. A member of the cast, alumnus Jason Savage participates in the theater program at CSUF and played the role of Mr. Dictus, the secretary in Measure for Measure.

The play begins as lust and promiscuity spill onto the streets of Europe and a dark tone settles into place. The recently appointed representative Angelo (Matthew McGee) steps into action with the arrest of Claudio (Adam Schroeder), a young man whom Angelo sentences to death for having impregnated his girlfriend, Juliet (Sara England).

Claudio’s sister Isabella (Brandi Martin), a convent novice, learns of the sentence and must plead for her brother?s life to the representative. Angelo feels a strong attraction for Isabella, and must debate his own morals regarding lust for the young woman. He allows his evil side to win the battle, and confronts Isabella with the chance to win Claudio?s life if she gives herself to him.

The story revolves around the ultimatum in which Isabella must choose between the rescue of her brother?s life or the forfeit of her purity and virtue. The conflict Shakespeare builds into his story seems risqu