AS YOU LIKE IT to Open at Reservoir Park in Free Shakespeare in the Park

Gamut Theatre will present the 33rd Annual Free Shakespeare in the Park Production of As You Like It by William Shakespeare, directed by Kim Greenawalt and Emily MacLeod, June 5 - 20 at Reservoir Park in Harrisburg. This show is sponsored by Dauphin County. Gamut Theatre is the combined theatre company of Popcorn Hat Players Children's Theatre and Harrisburg Shakespeare Company.

Shakespeare's beloved festive comedy follows the journey of Rosalind, daughter to the banished Duke Senior, and her cousin Celia, daughter to the usurping Duke Frederick, as they escape to the Forest of Arden to find Rosalind's father. Dressed as a shepherd boy, Rosalind encounters Orlando, a young man who has escaped to the forest from his jealous sister Oliver. With an array of quirky characters, silly situations, and beautiful songs, this play explores the nature of love, poetry, family, and what we owe to ourselves and each other in a world of increasing division and strife.

Harrisburg Shakespeare Company is back at the bandshell in Reservoir park for their 33rd year of Free Shakespeare in the Park. Since 1994, the mission has remained the same: bring the magic of Shakespeare to the heart of Harrisburg- for free. That mission is being fulfilled more than ever this year in As You Like It, a production that boldly proclaims that “Everyone is welcome in Arden!” And, everyone is welcome at the park to enjoy Shakespeare under the stars. 

While Harrisburg Shakespeare Company has produced As You Like It multiple times in the past, directors Kim Greenawalt and Emily MacLeod offer a fresh, modern take on the Shakespeare classic. Greenawalt and MacLeod's version of As You Like It is set in a post-apocalyptic, low-tech world where humans either struggle for power in the court or rally together through community in the Forest of Arden. The directors were inspired by popular dystopian fiction like The Hunger Games and Station 11. Throughout the show, you'll see nods to some of your favorite dystopian worlds – look out for some Effie-Trinket-esque costumes!

As You Like It is full of music inspired by bluegrass, country, and Appalachian folk. In this production, you'll hear original music to Shakespeare's own verse composed by the cast and local musician, Noah Smull.

Gamut Theatre recommends that patrons come early with their own blanket or chair to grab a spot on the lawn. Additionally, Jazzeryn's Catering will be at every performance with favorites such as pulled pork sandwiches, mac & cheese, and burgers.

Although admission is free, Gamut Theatre will be collecting canned good items for Bethesda Mission and encourages patrons to bring in a donation. 

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