Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - A new season of Shakespeare is about to get underway in Buffalo.
"48 years of free Shakespeare in Western New York. We're one of the largest and second oldest free Shakespeare festivals in the country," said Lisa Ludwig, Executive Director of Shakespeare in Delaware Park (SDP).
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The outdoor theater experience returns to the main stage Thursday, June 22
on the hill in Delaware Park behind the Rose Garden, off Lincoln Parkway across from the new Buffalo AKG.
"Measure for Measure" runs June 22 thru July 16. "Romeo and Juliet" opens
June 27 thru August 20. Performances run Tuesdays through Sundays at 7:15pm.
"The new thing this year is that we're continuing with our touring productions.
The nights that we're not on the main stage, we'll be touring at different locations, all throughout Western New York with the production "Where There's a Will, There's a Play," said Ludwig. "We're hoping that people not only get to the hill, but also get to see us in their neighborhoods as well."
The touring production is an hour long and it's the 'best of bits of Shakespeare'.
The full schedule for Shakespeare touring productions can be found HERE.
Ludwig was asked if she expects a bump in attendance at the main stage in Delaware Park now that Buffalo AKG is open?
"We are so lucky to have the Albright Knox, AKG, right across the street from us, along with the Burchfield Penney, and Buffalo History Museum. We like to say to people, spend the whole afternoon in our neighborhood. Check out a museum and see a show and go to The Terrace restaurant for a wonderful dinner. It's very exciting to have our neighbors back up and running. There's a lot to see over here."
The performances are free, but just like in Shakespeare's time, a hat is passed during intermission for the organization to collect donations from the audience. "It's a free will donation. Any amount is appreciated. Whatever you can do to help support and keep us here for another 48 years," added Ludwig.
In the case of heavy rain or lightening storms, performances will be canceled. Decisions are typically made after 6:30pm and are posted on Facebook under "Shakespeare in Delaware Park."