By Carla Caldwell
Georgia Shakespeare is bringing its Shake at the Lake series back to Atlanta’s Piedmont Park through May 9 with performances of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy will be directed by frequent Georgia Shakespeare director John Dillon and feature company members. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. overlooking Piedmont Park’s Lake Clara Meer. Performances are free, but tickets in the form of wristbands are required.
Georgia Shakespeare, which is celebrating its 25th Anniversary, is based in Brookhaven at Oglethorpe University.
Shake at the Lake was started in 2004 and ran through 2008. The theater company is thrilled to again perform the park series, said Georgia Shakespeare’s Producing Artistic Director Richard Garner. He said performing outside under the stars and interacting with audiences can have a “magical” quality.
“We are extremely grateful for our presenting sponsor, Bank of America, as well as the support of The Coca-Cola Co., Corner Cap Investment Council, The Kendeda Fund, The Charles Loridans Foundation and the Piedmont Park Conservancy,” said Garner. “Without their philanthropic vision and earnest interest in the arts in our city, Shake at the Lake would not be possible,” said Garner.
Tickets are distributed on a first-come first-served basis each day of performances beginning at 10 a.m. at The Piedmont Park Visitor Center (at the 12th Street Entrance) and at Georgia Shakespeare’s Box Office at the Conant Performing Arts Center on the campus of Oglethorpe University, 4484 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30319. The venue opens 90 minutes before show time and only ticketed visitors will be allowed on the lawn near the lake.
On-street parking around Piedmont Park is limited. Parking is available at the Sage Parking Facility operated by The Atlanta Botanical Garden. Parking is 75 cents for first 30 minutes and $1 for each additional 30-minute period with a maximum daily rate of $15. Patrons also are encouraged to use public transportation.
For more information about tickets, the performance and prohibited items, which include folding chairs, tables and extra large coolers and blankets, go to shakeatthelake.com or gashakespeare.org, or call 404-264-0020.