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This year, the Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis celebrates its 10th anniversary of free performances in park by bringing Hamlet to the stage. Though the show opened two Fridays ago, you still have time to catch it before it closes on June 20.
Don't let the Shakespearian language discourage you from bringing the kids (or yourself). The words may seem foreign, but the stunning costumes and combat will keep their eyes (or yours) focused even if their ears tune out. As the ghost glides on the top platforms and the monarchs draped in lavish velvets attempt to conceal their devious murder, trust you will be whisked away to Shakespeare's time as the drama unfolds inside the castle's stone interior. And if you couldn't care less about the Elizabethan era, just trust that this tale of ghosts, murder, adultery and combat is as spellbinding as any action film. (Luxurious dresses trimmed in gold and sword fights with bloody victims never go out of style.)
Patrons are welcome to bring their own coolers packed with beer, soda, wine and whatever snacks their stomachs may be craving. If you’d rather not lug a cooler behind you, leave it at home and step up to a brightly colored tent. There, the festival sells beer, sangria and a variety of wines. Plus, they’ve got slushies and sodas for the kids, and you can order popcorn, nachos, sandwiches and salads too.
The other great thing about the Shakespeare Festival? It requires no cost from you. Then again, few things in life are completely free. This year, Wells Fargo Advisors are challenging patrons to match their $40,000 gift by scattering donation boxes around the theatre. (In honor of the festival's 10th year, the company encourages the audience to contribute donations in multiples of 10.)
Performances are 8 p.m., every night but Tuesday. Green Show entertainment starts at 6:30 p.m. For additional information, go to shakespearefestivalstlouis.org. --Maggie Menderski
