Shakespeare in the Park takes the theater experience into the outdoors

By Stephanie Jaquins • Photo by Tim Seib

As Festival 56 celebrates 20 years as a theater company, it seems fitting to revisit a play from its early years of performing Shakespeare in the Park.

This year’s play, “Twelfth Night,” is the most-attended William Shakespeare production in the theater’s history. Playgoers can catch one of 10 free outdoor performances in July and August at Soldiers & Sailors Park in Princeton.

The play is a fast-paced romantic comedy in which a shipwreck separates Viola from her brother, Sebastian, and the result is several interwoven plots of romance, mistaken identities and practical jokes.

Tim Seib, Festival 56 co-artistic director, said he hears from audiences who know and love Shakespeare and also people who have never seen a Shakespeare play performed.

“What a fantastic spectrum of experiences happening on that lawn every time our actors take that stage. Our audiences also consistently comment on how fun it was to see something they thought they knew, reimagined or told in a different way than they expected,” Seib said. “Shakespeare isn’t always performers in tights acting ‘fancy.’ It forces you to pay attention and read between the lines. And it always encourages conversation.”

First-timers should know, Seib said, that you don’t need any background about Shakespeare or “Twelfth Night” to have a good time.

“Do not be intimidated. There is information provided to you should you wish to follow along or read up a bit before the show starts. But also just taking it all in as it comes to you is a wonderful way to experience Shakespeare,” he said.

This year’s production will feature 16 professional actors and will be brought to life by a tech and design team of about 20 artists from across the country.

“It is such a treat to bring this level of talent to Princeton,” Seib said.

Attendees should bring a comfortable blanket or lawn chairs. Come early to get a close seat if you prefer that type of viewing experience.

“Bring bug spray, water, several friends, and you will be set to enjoy a truly unique experience right in your own backyard,” Seib said.

The play is performed at 7:30 p.m. every Sunday and Wednesday (weather permitting) Sunday, July 2, through Wednesday, Aug. 2.

The rest of the Festival 56 season will consist of “Million Dollar Quartet,” “Significant Other,” “Footloose” and “Something Rotten.” For more information on the Festival 56 season, visit www.festival56.com.

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