Eugene's Free Shakespeare Dazzles with 'Winter's Tale'

Free Shakespeare in the Park is once again gracing Eugene's Amazon Park with an outdoor production, continuing a tradition that began in 1999. This year's selection, "The Winter's Tale," was chosen by audience vote from the previous season's survey.

The play, first published in 1623, is one of Shakespeare's late romances and is brought to life by a cast ranging from 16 to the late 70s. "Exit Pursued by a Bear" is a famously noted stage direction, and the production will feature a returning costume, the bear, from a 2004 performance.

Artistic director Sharon Selove, inspired by her own childhood experience with Shakespeare in Central Park, founded the program with the goal of introducing young people to theater. She meticulously edits the plays to fit within a two-hour, fifteen-minute runtime before nightfall.

This year, Free Shakespeare in the Park is increasing accessibility by offering performances with ASL interpreters on August 22 and 23. The program runs Saturdays and Sundays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. until August 23, providing a unique theatrical experience against the backdrop of Amazon Park.

The play is described as a fairytale romance with a happy ending, complete with a princess, an oracle, and a magical statue. A special dance sequence choreographed by music director Christian Abbot, who also plays King Leontes, will be featured during a sheep shearing festival scene.

Performances are scheduled to run from August 1 to August 23. The ASL interpreted shows are specifically on August 22 and 23, further enhancing the program's commitment to inclusivity and broad audience engagement.