DIRECTOR Mark Smith promises a fast, fun and folky Twelfth Night when York Shakespeare Project stages Shakespeare’s rustic comedy in the York Theatre Royal Studio this spring.

“YSP has tackled a series of more serious plays recently, including 2012’s Othello, which sold out the Studio,” says Mark. “My aim with Twelfth Night is to bring out the romance and excitement as well as the more melancholic tones of this theatrical, musical, magical whirlwind of a much-loved story.

“There are elements that rank as some of Shakespeare’s finest romantic comedy, some brilliant broad humour and the famous con trick played on Malvolio, but this is not to forget the more moving aspects.”

Twelfth Night touches on love in many forms, suggests Mark. “In Viola, Shakespeare has created a gift of a central character: she’s impulsive, witty, spirited and magnetic,” he says. “But the play is an ensemble piece and we’ve assembled an unbeatable, strong and compact cast of 13 performers, many of whom are musicians as well as experienced actors.”

That cast will be led by Laura Soper, who plays Viola, having appeared as Eve in the 2012 York Mystery Plays in the Museum Gardens. Emily White will be Olivia; Jason Ryall, Orsino; Paul Osborne, Sir Toby Belch; Matthew Wignall, Sir Andrew Aguecheek, and Stephanie Cassidy, Maria.

YSP chairman Maurice Crichton will play the fool, Feste; Matt Pattison, Sebastian; Dan Hardy, Antonio; Natalie-Clare Brimicombe, musician/Valentine/officer, and Clare Duffy, musician/ Curio/ officer.

Beryl Nairn and Nick Jones, both so impressive in York Settlement Community Players’ Humble Boy in November, will take on the roles of Fabian and Malvolio.

Smith’s setting will be modern but rustic, drawing on the folky styles that are so in vogue. “We’re aiming for lots of natural colours and materials, lots of instrumentation and songs, and a simple staging in which the theatrical elements of the play are accentuated,” says Mark. “In casting it, one thing I was looking for was actors who will have fun sharing this brilliant story with the audience.

“The music is integral, and we’re working with a brilliant, talented composer, Fergus McGlynn, to create an upbeat, folk-filled score.”

Smith and McGlynn are accompanied in the production team by assistant directors Steph Bartlett and Fiona Kingwill, lighting designer Maria Terry, costume designers Jenny Anderton and Amy Milton and deputy stage manager Izzy Carrick.

Mark Smith last directed a YSP production in June 2009, when he presented Julius Caesar, a “very different proposition from Twelfth Night”, at 41 Monkgate. He also teaches at the University of York’s Theatre, Film and Television department, where he has directed, assistant-directed and appeared in several productions. His latest production will run from April 3 to 12.

“Having assembled such a talented cast, we’re on the brink of starting rehearsals, and everyone is brimming with ideas to bring to the play,” he says. “I’m hoping for surprises along the way – and to create a magical, musical show for all to enjoy.”

• Tickets: 01904 623568 or at yorktheatreroyal.co.uk