Island shakespeare festival Review

About Island shakespeare festival

Island Shakespeare Festival: Bringing Classical Theatre to Contemporary Audiences

Island Shakespeare Festival is a non-profit organization that aims to make classical theatre accessible and enjoyable for modern audiences. Founded in 2010, the festival has been entertaining and educating people of all ages with its high-quality productions of Shakespeare's plays and other classic works.

The festival takes place every summer on Whidbey Island, Washington, where it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The performances are held in an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views of Puget Sound. The setting provides a unique and immersive experience that transports the audience back in time to the Elizabethan era.

What sets Island Shakespeare Festival apart from other theatre companies is its commitment to making classical theatre relevant and relatable to contemporary audiences. The festival's mission statement sums it up perfectly: "to provide accessible, classical theatre realized for a contemporary audience." This means that the productions are not only faithful to the original text but also incorporate modern elements such as music, dance, humor, and social commentary.

The festival's artistic director Olena Hodges leads a team of talented actors, designers, technicians, musicians, and volunteers who work tirelessly to bring each production to life. They strive for excellence in every aspect of their craft – from acting and directing to set design and costume creation. Their passion for classical theatre shines through in every performance.

Island Shakespeare Festival offers a diverse range of plays each season – from well-known favorites like Romeo & Juliet and A Midsummer Night's Dream to lesser-known gems like Cymbeline or Pericles. They also feature works by other classic playwrights such as Moliere or Chekhov.

One thing that makes Island Shakespeare Festival stand out is its commitment to accessibility. They offer free admission for all their shows (although donations are encouraged), making it possible for everyone – regardless of income level –to enjoy live theatre at its finest. They also provide sign language interpretation services for deaf or hard-of-hearing patrons during select performances.

In addition to their mainstage productions, Island Shakespeare Festival offers educational programs designed to inspire young people's love of literature and drama. These programs include workshops on acting techniques or stagecraft as well as school matinees where students can see live performances tailored specifically for them.

Overall, Island Shakespeare Festival is an exceptional organization dedicated not only to preserving classical theatre but also making it relevant and engaging for today's audiences. Their commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can experience the magic of live performance without barriers or limitations.
If you're looking for an unforgettable theatrical experience this summer (or any summer), be sure not miss out on this amazing event!