Shakespeare in the Park Performance - Backyard Bard: The Taming of the Shrew

Adapted and Directed by Nicole Vernon

Backyard Bard presents two stripped-down productions of Shakespeare’s plays, each one hour long, and both performed by a small ensemble of versatile actors.

Backyard Bard was born out of a desire to bring Shakespeare to smaller parks and new audiences in underserved neighborhoods. But we don’t just perform in the parks – Backyard Bard is also available for private parties. If you are interested in hosting a performance, contact us at greenstage@greenstage.org.

Quickly becoming one of GreenStage’s most popular programs, this year Backyard Bard features a cast of five intrepid and versatile actors playing all the roles in two abbreviated versions of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Deep in an enchanted forest, feuding fairy royalty meddle with lovesick mortals, causing hearts to tangle and affections to go hilariously astray. A mischievous sprite named Puck sprinkles a bit too much fairy dust, leading to a donkey-headed suitor, bewitched lovers, and a delightfully absurd play within a play. Enchantments unravel and true love is tested culminating in a whirlwind of magic, mischief, and romance.

The Taming of The Shrew

Sharp-tongued Kate wants nothing to do with marriage, but the bold and mischievous Petruchio is determined to win her. As he matches her wit with outrageous antics, their romance turns into a hilarious war of words, wills, and mind games. Meanwhile, Kate’s sweet younger sister, Bianca, has a line of eager suitors—but she can’t marry until her “shrewish” sister is wed. What follows is a chaotic mix of disguises, tricks, and unexpected twists.

CAST:

Ejay Amor

    MIDSUMMER – Lysander / Flute / Oberon
    SHREW – Baptista / Grumio

Ryan Crome

    MIDSUMMER –  Theseus / Puck
    SHREW – Lucentio / Gremio / Tailor

Katie Dreessen

    MIDSUMMER – Egeus / Helena / Titania / Snug
    SHREW – Kate / Servant

Lauren Erwin

    MIDSUMMER – Hermia / Quince / Fairy
    SHREW –  Bianca / Petruchio

Bryce Publow

    MIDSUMMER – Demetrius / Bottom
    SHREW – Tranio / Hortensio / Vincentio