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Enter a whimsical world of love, laughter and self-discovery as local youth hone their creative skills in Summer Shakespeare Tauranga Trust’s annual offering at Te Puna Quarry Park.
This year the trust presents As You Like It – written by William Shakespeare and directed by SSTT’s Pascal Tibbits – across eight summer nights between February 5-15.
Trust spokesperson Vikki Tibbits said this year the play is a light-hearted comedy that will suit all ages – and would make the perfect evening out.
“Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespeare fan or new to his works, this performance promises to be a joyful celebration of theatre.”
Encouraging youth
Tibbits said while some youngsters may not understand the Shakespearean language “our talented actors are able to tell the story with how they perform on-stage”.
Creative expression is at the heart of the trust’s work, especially with youth. As You Like It has a cast of 18, with one-third youth. The youngest is aged 15.
“As a charity, part of the trust’s endeavour is to provide youth with opportunities for mentorship and growth in the arts via our community-based platform,” said Tibbits.
“We get youth and emerging artists to work alongside experienced actors, directors and technicians to nurture confidence, resilience, teamwork and creative expression.
“We’re trying to keep youth involved with this Shakespearean format of theatre, and keep it alive and interesting for all – from actors, designers, musicians to volunteers.”
Set in the lush Forest of Arden, As You Like It sees colourful characters navigate the twists and turns of romance and friendship.
As the story unfolds, Rosalind, the clever and spirited heroine, disguises herself to explore the complexities of love and identity.
“Unlike Shakespeare’s tragedies, this play is light-hearted, full of laughter, jokes and people falling in love – so it’s a beautiful little comedy,” said Tibbits.
Support local!
“There is terraced seating, we’ll have a licensed bar and freshly prepared food for sale on-site. We encourage people to bring a picnic blanket and their own picnic if they want.”
She hopes the community will support the trust’s work.
“Please come along and help keep the arts and theatre alive and active in our community.”
As You Like It runs between February 5-15 at Te Puna Quarry Park, open 5.30pm. The show starts 6.30pm. The venue has wheelchair access and transport from the carpark to the amphitheatre is available to patrons that need it. To purchase tickets, see their advert on this page.
*The Weekend Sun has one double pass to give away to one lucky reader who can tell us the name of the play’s clever and spirited heroine?
To enter, visit: www.sunlive.co.nz and click on the ‘competitions’ tab. Entries must be in by Tuesday, February 3.