1 week Ago By MONTANA STANDARD
Montana Shakespeare in the Parks (MSIP) kicks off its 53rd season with free performances of Shakespeare’s "As You Like It" and "Henry V". "As You Like It" speaks to the joy and complexity of love, identity, and the transformative power of nature. This romantic comedy follows the story of Rosalind, one of Shakespeare’s most complex female characters, as she ventures into the Forest of Arden alongside a colorful cast of characters to explore questions of love and transformation.
Well over 100 people came out to see Montana Shakespeare in the Parks at Poker Jim Butte. “I love the primal idea of going back to nature to find one’s deepest desires,” says Eva Breneman, director of As You Like It. “I especially think the citizens of the mountain West will understand that impulse.
” "Henry V," one of Shakespeare’s historical plays, explores leadership, honor, and the impact of decisions made in times of great uncertainty. A young man thrust into leadership of a nation torn apart by national destruction and discord, Henry grapples with the conflict between political expediency and his own moral compass, elevating themes of honor, justice, and mercy. “These ideas of loyalty, patriotism, and service are rooted in the Montana way of life,” says Kevin Asselin, director of Henry V.
“It’s the human component within this play that I want to bring out most for our audiences.” As with many of MSIP’s productions, audiences will experience complex and exciting fight scenes as the play culminates in the famous Battle of Agincourt. This summer, the company performs in 64 communities across five states including Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North Dakota, and Washington, serving over 20,000 audience members annually with free performances.
As part of MSIP’s Share Our Stage program, most events will feature pre-show performances by local artists. Audiences are encouraged to come early, bring a picnic, and enjoy an evening together under the Big Sky among friends and neighbors. Southwest Montana performances include: • Dillon, Aug.
1, 6 p.m., Legacy Plaza, Montana Western Campus, "As You Like It.
" • Deer Lodge, Aug. 2, 6 p.m.
, Old Montana Prison Museum, "Henry V." • Anaconda, Aug. 3, 6 p.
m., Washoe Park, "As You Like It." • Philipsburg, Aug.
3, 6 p.m., Winninghoff Park, "Henry V.
" • Butte, Sept. 1, 5:3 0 p.m.
, Stodden Park, "As You Like It." For more information and the full tour schedule, visit ShakespeareInTheParks.org .
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