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A group of soldiers is welcomed home by vintner Leonato and his household. Young Claudio has had his eye on Leonato’s daughter Hero for some time, and now feels the time might be ripe to ask for her hand in marriage. Noting Claudio’s shyness, his commanding officer Don Pedro suggests that he do the matchmaking on Claudio’s behalf.  Claudio’s fellow soldier (and confirmed bachelor) Benedick also renews his prickly relationship with Leonato’s niece Beatrice.

While waiting for the wedding day, Don Pedro and Leonato contrive to get Benedick and Beatrice to realize that their “skirmishes of wit” are merely covers for their attraction to each other. They concoct a plan to have them overhear conversations about how it is only their pride that prevents them from admitting their love for each other.

At the same time, Don Pedro’s brother, Don John, with the help of two companions, Borachio and Conrade, contrives to spoil the match between Claudio and Hero by spreading “alternative facts” about Hero’s virginity.

A group of well-meaning petty town officials uncovers the nasty plot and brings an end to much of the ado.