Was it really, truly 40 years ago that Bob Glenn started The Shakespeare Festival of Dallas with a free presentation of a one-man version of “Hamlet”? Yes, it was outdoors and hot, but it was just three years after Franco Zeffirelli made “Romeo & Juliet” so cool with Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey. Dallasites learned that even in the summer heat, Shakespeare was cool.
Like Shakespeare’s plays, the festival went through transformations but still remained loyal to the bard’s words. For instance, it expanded its productions and created programs like Shakespeare on the Go! and Shakespeare Unplugged.
Now that you’re in the Shakespearean mindset and you’re looking at a three-day (or, in some cases, four-day) weekend, you might want to check out Shakespeare Dallas’ latest effort — “As You Like It.” No, it’s not what you think. Executive and artistic director Raphael Parry has come up with a different spin to it.
“Our version of this 16th century play is set in 1930’s Spain, aptly mirroring the country’s strife during the Spanish Civil War. Recreating a time when fascist government ideals ruled over more republican principles, Spain the 1930’s is an ideal setting for our banished heroes, who must find refuge in the forest. Where flamenco meets French aristocracy — that’s where you’ll find this wonderfully unique production.”
If you already have plans this weekend, not to worry. It will continue through Saturday, July 23, at the Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre. It’s easy to get reservations. They’re available online. Why you can even become a member (ranging from $40 to $1,000) of Shakespeare Dallas online, too.