Bainbridge Performing Arts Partners With IslandWood for Outdoor Performances

Bainbridge Performing Arts (BPA) announced today that it has formed a partnership with IslandWood to present an outdoor summertime performance. The BPA Shakespeare Society will perform The Tempest for one week in August on IslandWood's campus.

A story about magic, romance, and regret, The Tempest will entertain audiences of all ages, especially by taking advantage of the natural beauty of the Northwest. "Despite being over four hundred years old, Shakespeare's works remain deeply entrenched in our language and world view," says Tom Challinor. "Taking a Shakespeare play outside gives it new sights and sounds and smells, making it seem fresher than it does in a theatre or on a page."

IslandWood's Creaky Tree Meadow, with its tall cedars and moss-covered snags, will serve as the venue for the production. "We're proud to offer community events and programs that seamlessly blend science and the arts with immersion in nature," says Christina Doherty, IslandWood's Community Education Coordinator. "By bringing Shakespeare to IslandWood, we have a unique opportunity to entertain and engage our guests through performance art."

The production offers opportunities for local actors and stagecraft professionals. Auditions for all roles will take place in March, and tickets will go on sale this spring. More information about the BPA Shakespeare Society and this production of The Tempest is available on the BPA website: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org.

Bainbridge Performing Arts is non-profit arts organization located in downtown Winslow on Bainbridge Island. BPA's mission is to educate, entertain, and encourage youth and adults in the performing arts of theater, music, and dance. Founded in 1956, BPA has emerged as the quintessential heart of Bainbridge Island's artistic community, a gathering place for the energy, talent, and spirit of artists, writers, directors, musicians, dancers, students, volunteers, and impassioned audience members. In addition to presenting five Mainstage productions a year, BPA is home to the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra, The EDGE Improv, and numerous classes for youth and adults.

IslandWood is a nationally recognized outdoor learning center that connects thousands of children and adults every year to the natural world in communities throughout the Puget Sound region. IslandWood's mission is to provide exceptional learning experiences and to inspire lifelong environmental and community stewardship. In addition to school programs for Seattle-area youth, IslandWood offers a graduate program in Education, Environment, and Community; Conference Programs for nonprofits and corporations; and camps and community programs for children and adults. Learn more: www.islandwood.org.