Royal Oak Resident Works to Keep Local Performing Arts Alive

To say Edward Nahhat has been blessed with creative abilities is a complete understatement.

This producer, theater company founder, high school drama coach, attorney and longtime Royal Oak resident has made his mark on the Michigan performing arts and isn’t planning on stopping any time soon.

Nahhat, 49, said he always felt a strong pull to the world of theater, even while growing up. Having earned a Bachelor of Arts from Wayne State University, Nahhat has spent years on both sides of the camera.

He has traveled near and far living out his artistic passion, but in the back of his mind, Nahhat always knew he wanted to keep the strength of local arts remaining here in Michigan. Such a desire led him to form his own production company, Water Works Theatre, in 2001.

“Because I grew up in Royal Oak, I know everyone in town,” Nahhat said. “I had to start the company here; there was no other place to do it.”

Water Works, a troupe as unique as they come, specializes in professional outdoor Shakespearian theater.

A group of 50 dedicated volunteers — including professional artists, designers and office staff — will help coordinate the upcoming Shakespeare in the Park, a three-week festival event held annually at .

This year's lineup provides a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to attend the family play Aladdin, want to see a Shakespearean piece such as The Tempest or hope to catch a play at no cost — such as the new Summer Sonnets — you will find it at the festival. Also, for the first time, this year's production of The Tempest will equip its actors with hanging cables for a literally high-flying production.

Shakespeare in the Park also boasts two separate weeklong camps: one for children in Grades 1-8 and one for youths in high school.

“It’s a unique cultural offering for the community and professional venue for local talent,” said Holly Conroy, Water Works house manager and board of directors member.

“Ed’s creativity and attention to detail are the backbone of the company; the man knows the theater,” she said.

When Nahhat isn’t working on any Water Works projects or pursuing his full-time career as a Warren attorney, he can be found producing Mitch Albom’s Ernie. The two-man play, based on the life of Tigers broadcasting great Ernie Harwell, debuted April 28 and is enjoying a successful summer run at Detroit’s City Theatre.

In his spare time, Nahhat is drama coach at where he directs students of all class levels in the fall and spring productions, such as last spring's Little Women.

“I think that as teenagers, sometimes we needed a little push, and Mr. Nahhat was always good for that,” said Claire Holloway, a 2011 graduate of ROHS. “He was always very open to incorporating our ideas, as well — which made us feel like part of the process — and in doing so, we felt more engaged and willing to put in the effort.”

Shakespeare in the Park begins July 21 and will continue until Aug. 7. All tickets are general admission and are good for any day. Tickets cost $20 for The Tempest and $6 for Aladdin.

To purchase tickets for the upcoming Shakespeare in the Park, call the Water Works Theatre Company at 248-399-3727 or visit its website. To purchase tickets for Ernie, visit the City Theatre website.

Shakespeare in the Park show times

• July 21-Aug. 7: The Tempest at Star Jaycee Park begins at 8 p.m. every Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 4 p.m. every Sunday.

• July 26-Aug. 7: The Commedia Aladdin at Star Jaycee Park begins at 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and at 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

• July 30 and Aug. 6: Summer Sonnets begins at 4 p.m. at Star Jaycee Park.

• Now until Aug. 21: Ernie at City Theatre on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Visit the City Theatre website for showtimes.