Shakespeare Fest restarts with rotating repertory

Island Shakespeare Festival in Langley is back with three exciting new shows for modern audiences.

Feeling drained by the effects of the pandemic and other challenging consequences of our modern world? Here’s the perfect balm for every person in your tribe: a rainbow of pay-what-you-will, outdoor theatrical entertainments to take you through summer.

Island Shakespeare Festival in Langley is back with three exciting new shows for modern audiences. William Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labor’s Lost,” and “Titus Andronicus,” along with the world premiere adaptation of “Cyrano de Bergerac: A Queeroic Comedy with Many Acts.”

These shows will take the stage from July 15 through Sept. 11 with various 6 p.m. evening and 1 p.m. matinee performances.

“This year, we look to our past to illuminate our future,” the nonprofit group said in a press release. “Through these stories, it’s clear that the way we use language dictates our thoughts and, ultimately, our actions. Words can lead to unintended consequences, from minor misunderstandings to major political disasters.”

In “Love’s Labor’s Lost,” directed by Jecamiah Ybañez, a self-imposed quarantine of four young heroes intended to expand their scholarly reach is foiled by Cupid’s irrepressible arrow. Young, academic heroes learn from their smarter female counterparts that actions will always speak louder than words and to never underestimate the capacity of a formidable woman.

In director Erin Murray’s adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s “Cyrano de Bergerac,” 17th century romantic icons mesh with our modern, gender-fluid world as they learn that love is not always what it appears to be and that falsehood, prejudice and compromise are the antithesis of true love.

“Titus Andronicus,” directed by Scott Kaiser, offers a cautionary tale of vengeance when a violent oppressor reaps what he has sown. Set in Rome, this gruesome blood-fest delves into a clutch of murder, mutilation and rape, conveying all the elements of a modern-day slasher film.

According to a press release, the festival organizers believe art should be for everyone and, therefore, summer performances are “pay-what-you-will” to attend.

The seating is festival-style and is sometimes filled to capacity before the play begins. All “ISF Sustainers” will have early access to limited reserved seating. Check the website for info on becoming a sustainer.

All performances are at 5476 Maxwelton Road in Langley. Visit islandshakespeare.org for more information. Masks are encouraged but not required. Please refer to our website for any updated COVID protocols.

jim carroll, jshuimages.com
“Cyrano de Bergerac, A Queeroic Comedy in Many Acts” stars Helen Roundhill as Cyrano with Mary Isabella Reagan as Roxane and Anthony Doan as Christian at Island Shakespeare Fest. It opens July 23.

jim carroll, jshuimages.com “Cyrano de Bergerac, A Queeroic Comedy in Many Acts” stars Helen Roundhill as Cyrano with Mary Isabella Reagan as Roxane and Anthony Doan as Christian at Island Shakespeare Fest. It opens July 23.