Last time Kate MacCluggage starred in a show at Hartford Stage, it was 2012's romantic comedy "Bell, Book and Candle." And here's what the New York Times critic had to say about her turn as good witch Gillian: "As played by the enchanting Kate MacCluggage, Gillian is a very sexy witch with full confidence in her seductive powers" and "This production would not work nearly so well without these performances, particularly Ms. MacCluggage's ..."

The actress, who grew up in Groton, returns to Hartford Stage to portray Viola in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night." And what a rich role Viola is. The character dresses as a man so she can serve Duke Orsino. While Viola is delivering love messages from the Duke to a woman named Olivia, Olivia becomes infatuated with Viola in her male disguise. And Viola falls for the Duke. In other words, it's all classic Shakespearean comedy complications.

"Twelfth Night" opens at 8 tonight and runs through June 16. Tickets are $26.50-$83.50; (860) 527-5151.

- Kristina Dorsey