Ronin Theatre Company presents William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” in downtown Phoenix starting in December.

Shakespeare titled this play for the 12th night after Christmas (also known as Epiphany or Three Kings Day) and the bard uses it as the backdrop for a celebration of false identities and ulterior motives.

The show runs from Wednesday, Dec. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 17, with two matinees and four evening performances, at the Irish Cultural Center courtyard, at 1106 N. Central Ave.

“This holiday season, everyone’s a fool in love,” Ronin co-founder and “Twelfth Night” director Cody Goulder shared in a press release. “It’s also the saddest day of the year for Clark Griswold, because it’s unlucky to leave Christmas decorations hanging after Twelfth Night!”

As the story goes, Ronin Theatre Company explains, twins are separated by a shipwreck. Thinking her brother dead, Viola disguises herself as a man to land a job with Duke Orsino. Orsino sends "Cesario" (Viola) to woo Olivia on his behalf. This creates an unexpected love triangle as Orsino loves Olivia, Olivia falls in love with "Cesario" and Viola falls for Orsino.

Whatever became of Viola's twin brother? Come find out.

Melody Knudson (Viola), Marshall Glass (Orsino) and Katherine Stewart (Olivia) lead the cast along with Skip Emerson (Sir Andrew), Alana Samuels (Maria), Matt Clarke (Malvolio), Keath Hall (Sir Toby), Leonidas Karandreas (Sebastian), Benjamin Donnel (Antonio), Carlin Thomas (Fabian) and Rachelle Dart (Feste).

Tickets are $30 for regular admission, $20 for Irish Cultural members, veterans, seniors 60+ and students with valid ID. Patrons are encouraged to dress warmly. Patio heaters will be provided and blankets made available while supplies last.

Reserve seats now at azirish.org/ronin-theatre.

In 2024, Ronin will present “The Lonesome West,” “The Hairy Ape,” “Venus In Fur,” “Haunted Castle,” and “Coriolanus.”

Four shows will be at the Irish Cultural Center and “Venus In Fir” runs at Stage Left Productions in Surprise in the West Valley.

Ronin Theatre Company was founded in 2020.

Visit ronintheatre.com.