To Do Today: Experience Shakespeare live, under the stars, while BU alums work behind the scenes
To Do Today: Shakespeare Live on the Common
BU alums work behind the scenes on this unique production
Commonwealth Shakespeare Company enters its 24th season with a production of Cymbeline, running through August 4. Pictured above, a photo from the company’s 2016 production of Love’s Labour Lost. Photo courtesy of Andrew Brilliant
What? Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s mystical dramedy Cymbeline
When? Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, and Sundays at 7 pm. The performances will run through Sunday, August 4, with a matinee on Saturday, August 3, at 3 pm. Find information about inclusive shows, including an ASL and audio-described performances, here.
Where? The Boston Common Parkman Bandstand, 139 Tremont St., Boston.
How much? Free
Why should I go? Cymbeline is one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known works, but it packs a punch, with drama, a wonderful cast, and of course, Shakespearean English. The play follows King Cymbeline, who is puppeteered by the evil queen he recently married, and his strong-willed daughter, who has multiple suitors and is framed for being unchaste.
Several BU grads are working on the production behind the scenes, including production manager Renee Yancey (CFA’18), who says the BU connection brings a special element to working for the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, because it creates a tight-knit community of people who speak the same artistic language. Other alums involved in the show include Kevin Schlagle (CFA’12) (stage manager) and Nicole Clark (CFA’18) and Brian Robillard (CFA’16) (assistant stage managers).
Why does Yancey think students should attend? “It’s free!” she says. “But seriously, you should get together a group of friends, bring picnic and some blankets, and enjoy a night of Shakespeare under the stars.”
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