I am a huge fan of Shakespeare: I have magnets with Shakespeare quotes covering my fridge; During high school, I memorized the opening to Romeo and Juliet; When I lived in London, I took a day trip to the birthplace of Shakespeare and walked around in a daze simply because I was in awe to be in the place he was born; I also frequented Shakespeare's Globe Theater several times during my year in London. I could go on, but I think you get the idea.
For the past three summers, Chicago Shakespeare Theater has joined with the Chicago Parks District to put on Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks! These performances are free and travel to different neighborhood parks throughout the city, bringing Shakespeare to friends and families of all ages.
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| The Mayor with the cast at the Garfield Park performance Photo: Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks 2014 |
This summer, they performed the comedy A Midsummer's Night Dream. Because I am such a fanatic, I checked the schedule as soon as it was released to find a performance in a park close to me. Lucky for me, they were holding one in the gorgeous Garfield Park Conservatory the weekend my lovely mother came to visit me. What better way to spend mother-daughter time than watching a play? For free!
I knew to arrive early in order to get good seats and to bring chairs in order to see over the crowd. My mother and I found an excellent spot, then hunkered down to wait for the play to start.
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| Actors pursue each other through the crowd during the performance Photo: Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks 2014 |
Having attended the previous year, I knew to expect a stellar play and I was not disappointed. The actors and actresses were excellent. The sets and transitions were flawless. I giggled, I laughed, and yes I even snorted (hey, Shakespeare can be so funny). I got to spend time with one of my favorite people, and I got to enjoy a beautiful day at a beautiful park.
The Deal:
I Spent: Nothing!
I Got: To see an incredibly entertaining performance