Since 1991, the Greater Victoria Shakespeare Festival has been treating local audiences to outdoor performances of some of the Bard’s best.
The 2019 season, running July 4-27 at Camosun College Lansdowne Campus and Aug. 1-3 at Saxe Point Park in Esquimalt, features two of the great playwright’s most treasured works.
First, festival-favourite director Christopher Weddell will be presenting a “rollicking” rendition of the comedy Two Gentlemen of Verona. Believed to be written sometime around 1590 and possible Shakespeare’s first play, the festival describes this work as a “rom-com that celebrates youth, impulsivity, bad decisions, and unexpected endings – plus a dog.”
Then, turning slightly more serious, festival newcomer director Tamara McCarthy will bring to the stage the quintessential tragedy Julius Caesar. McCarthy, a Jessie Richardson Theatre Award nominee from Nanaimo, is preparing an “exciting interpretation of this classic political thriller with spellbinding schemes and violent betrayal.”
Audiences are free to bring lawn chairs, blankets and/or cushions to get the most out of this outdoor experience, and picnics are also encouraged. A concession will be available featuring hot beverages and some snacks. Well-behaved furry friends are also allowed.
The festival is also partnering with Dine In Victoria, with food from local restaurants available to be delivered right to the festival venues. One restaurant will be featured each day of the festival, with a simplified menu and all orders arriving in time for the performance.
For more information and tickets visit vicshakespeare.com.
editor@mondaymag.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
