An honest tale speeds best, being plainly told.
Richard III, 4. 4

One of the greatest traditions of the English speaking world is Shakespeare in the Park.  Combine the beauty of nature with the genius of Shakespeare and you have an event that engages all your senses. The gentle breeze on your face, the smell of the pines, a glass of good Chardonnay and Shakespeare’s very own words brought to life by the breath of good actors.

Talk’st thou to me of ‘ifs’? Thou art a traitor:
Off with his head!
Richard III, 3. 4

The cast of the Woodward Shakespeare Festival did an exceptional job. If there was one word to sum up the performance, it would be ‘BRAVO’! From the lead characters right down to the staging, it was wonderful. Congrats to all!

More after the jump, including scenes from that small town that lives backstage before and during the performance. Honestly, its one of my favorite places in the world!

Now is the winter of our discontent
Made glorious summer by this sun of York.
Richard III, 1. 1

Before Richard can claim the stage and utter those profound opening lines, a small town behind the stage had been constructed, its sole purpose being this moment.

The cast was relaxed and well rehearsed for this evening.  There were no opening night ‘jitters’, that night had long past. Now the entire production had a sense of confidence and trust with each other. Last minute direction was given and the actors completed their wardrobe while …

…an amazing army of volunteers assembled to attend to every detail.  Swords were sharpened, chalices polished, any small thing overlooked can be a distraction to the audience, and that is just not acceptable.

And thus I clothe my naked villainy
With old odd ends stolen out of holy writ,
And seem a saint when most I play the devil.
Richard III. 1. 3

Soon enough, our Richard is about his vile business and the audience became lost in the tale. You could hear every word from anywhere in the park. That’s important since every word counts in Shakespeare!

Richard III is a complex play with many characters. Our vile King Richard was well supported by a strong cast in every role. The costumes were beautiful and the lighting made them sparkle.

In the end, tears were shed, heads rolled and the audience had their fill of Mother Nature and Human Nature, portrayed so well by so many.

But keep in mind, in spite of best efforts – everyone is a critic!