The Gainesville Theater Alliance (GTA) will present "Godspell," and William Shakespeare’s "Much Ado About Nothing," Feb. 14-25 as part of its 2016-17 season.

In "Much Ado About Nothing," two lovers conspire to set a "lover's trap" for an arrogant confirmed bachelor and his favorite sparring partner, while they look forward to their own wedding, just a week away.  At the same time, other conspirators work to run the wedding plans off the rails and odd characters turn up to stick their stinky feet into the works, while the audience listens in and wonders how things can possibly get untangled.

Directed by University of North Georgia (UNG) Professor Elisa Carlson, "Much Ado About Nothing," will be performed at UNG’s Ed Cabell Theatre, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood, Georgia.

"Godspell," written by Stephen Schwartz, the creator of musical blockbusters "Pippen" and "Wicked," will be performed at Brenau University's Hosch Theatre in the John S. Burd Center, 429 Academy Street, Gainesville, Georgia.

A lyrical retelling of the life of Jesus, "Godspell" invites audiences to "prepare ye the way" with John the Baptist and a re-envisioned band of followers sharing the comical and touching teachings of Christ through inspired choreography and lyrics.

Free stage tours offering a sneak peek behind the scenes of both plays will be held at 6 p.m. on Feb. 2 for "Much Ado About Nothing," and at 6 p.m. Jan. 31 for "Godspell."

"Stage tours allow patrons to see the layers of design, direction and performance that go into GTA productions," said Beth Kendall, marketing manager for GTA.

GTA is a nationally acclaimed, 37-year collaboration of the University of North Georgia (UNG), Brenau University, theatre professionals, and the north Georgia community.

Tickets for each production range from $12 to $26 depending on seat location and can be purchased at www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org or at the box office at (678) 717-3624, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.