BARD IN THE BARRACKS presents Shakespeare’s AS YOU LIKE IT

From June 19-29 Barracks Square in downtown Fredericton will be overrun every night by new-age eco-hippies, skateboard-riding hipsters, and leather-clad punks, with the odd Goth and Emo kid thrown in for good measure, all of them declaiming … Shakespeare. Oh, and you may also spot a live sheep or two.

It can only mean one thing: Bard in the Barracks is back. The third annual edition of Fredericton’s popular outdoor Shakespeare production, produced in partnership by Theatre UNB and the NotaBle Acts Theatre Company, this year features As You Like It, one of Shakespeare’s most loved comedies. The story of a group of exiles from a tyrannical state who find knowledge, romance, and a happier life in the magical Forest of Arden As You Like It has a decided counterculture spirit. This production features a colourful retro-60s staging that updates the play with references to contemporary celebrity culture, environmental themes, and the recent skateboard law controversy.

Audiences will also be treated to a memorable wrestling match, some of Shakespeare’s most stirring verse (including the famous “All the world’s a stage” speech), and the Bard’s largest female role in the character of the free-spirited Rosalind, whose cross-dressed pursuit of the handsome Orlando provides the play’s main plotline.

The production is directed by UNB theatre professor Len Falkenstein, with live music by some of Fredericton’s favorite musicians, led by Kelly Waterhouse and members of Vetch, who will perform original versions of the play’s many songs.

New this year is a 7:30 start time and bleacher seating to enhance the viewing experience. As You Like It will be performed Thursday, June 19-Sunday June 22 & Tuesday June 24-Sunday June 29 at 7:30 nightly in Barracks Square (corner of Carleton and Queen streets). Tickets are $12 regular, $8 for students, and free for children under 12, and are available at the door or in advance at River Valley Crafts. The June 24th performance will be pay-what-you-can. The show will be cancelled in case of rain at show time, with tickets honoured for subsequent performances (no shows will be added). Patrons should dress for the weather and are encouraged to bring a seat cushion or blanket. For more information call 458-7406 or e-mail nbacts@unb.ca