The Wartburg Players will perform “Wartburg Players Romeo and Juliet” at 6 p.m. May 18 in Kohlmann Park.

This production is the first of its kind for the acting ensemble, with the cast beginning rehearsals just 24 hours before taking the stage. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and school will serve as a rain site. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

“Actors of Wartburg College will place one foot on sea and one on shore, to one thing constant never as they create this play in 24 hours. From hour one to hour 24, students will rehearse, learn improv skills and discover the magic of Shakespeare before we say ‘good night, good night. Parting is such sweet sorrow,’” said Audrey Rice, development manager for Wartburg Players. “During intermission, students of Waverly-Shell Rock High School will feature talents of their own for the community. This production, much like the river, is meant to connect our community through a shared love of the arts.”

The student directors are Keziah Ambundo, Jack Dalhby Albright, Alyson Hasner and Lennon Schriever. Assisting the student directors are the organization’s advisers, Brian Pfaltzgraff and Sally Malcolm.

“This production of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is meant to show the diversity of our students and their talents. Bring a chair, a blanket and a friend. Remember, ‘tis true that a good play needs no epilogue,’” said Rice.

Wartburg Players is a student-led drama organization out of Wartburg College that features the talents of students on and off the stage to bring productions like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Little Women” and “A Flea in Her Ear” to life.