Yale Repertory Theatre,

University Theatre, 222 York St., New Haven

Anyone who decides to do a mash-up of Shakespeare and the Beatles had better make sure the enterprise is gleaming with wit and rocking with attitude. Putting your own spin on greats like the Bard and the Fab Four is an Everest-sized challenge. Here, alas, things don't really work. Rolin Jones' adaptation of "Much Ado About Nothing" feels banal whenever the dialogue strays too far from the Shakespeare. The songs by the usually reliable Billie Joe Armstong of Green Day are pleasant and have an early-Beatles sound, but they don't make a lasting impression. The mod rockers here are called the Quartos, and the British band has just returned home after conquering America. One of the cleverest conceits is transforming the scheming Don John into fired drummer Don Best (played by Adam O'Byrne). Leading the gang is David Wilson Barnes, who brings a quiet charisma and a depth of feeling to the John Lennon/Benedick character. His Ben banters with sharp-tongued fashion designer Bea (with Jeanine Serralles filling the Beatrice role). "These Paper Bullets!" runs through April 5, and tickets range from $57 to $78, or $25 for students. Call (203) 432-1234.

- KRISTINA DORSEY