The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

Arden Forest Grows in Amphitheater

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in Madison is preparing to open its summer outdoor production, William Shakespeare's As You Like It, at the amphitheater on the campus of the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morris Township. This replica of an ancient Greek theater, nestled into the hillside of the bucolic campus, offers a theatrical setting unique on the East Coast.

Shakespeare Theatre Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte will direct the play. In her 23rd season as artistic director, Monte has directed 50 productions for the company, including most recently Trelawny of the Wells, Man of La Mancha, Measure for Measure, A Christmas Carol, The Misanthrope, Othello, No Man's Land, The Taming of the Shrew, and Hamlet. Her adaptation of Carlo Goldoni's The Servant of Two Masters was recently published by Playscripts Inc.

The large lawn surrounding the amphitheater is ideal for picnicking. Audience members may bring their own food and beverages, or purchase snacks and soft drinks on-site. Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets or low-lying beach chairs into the amphitheater. Stadium seats are available for $3 rental while supplies last. Seating is general admission. As available, complimentary hand-held fans will be provided courtesy of Field Station: Dinosaurs in Secaucus.

“Twelve years ago, this extraordinary Greek amphitheater, with its beautiful grounds and vista, became our second performance venue, and we are so grateful to the College of Saint Elizabeth for making it possible,” Monte said in a press release. “For thousands of patrons, attending our Outdoor Stage productions at this unique theatre, ensconced in a beautiful setting, is a highly anticipated summertime tradition.”

As You Like It begins its run June 19 and continues through July 28th. Performances are Tuesdays through Sundays at 8:15 p.m. with additional twilight shows on Sundays at 4:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $28 to $33 for adults; tickets for ages 18 and under and students are $15. Children under age five may attend free. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for group discounts. For tickets or more information, call 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

For no more than the cost of a regular ticket, Symposium Series performances include the addition of a post-play discussion with the cast and artistic staff, on June 25, June 29, and July 6 at 8:15 p.m. On Thursday, June 27, The Shakespeare Theatre presents the popular education program Know the Show. From 7–7:30 p.m., members of the artistic staff will present a pre-performance talk that provides background information and an insider's perspective on As You Like It. General admission to Know the Show is $5 for the general public, $4 for subscribers and ticket package-holders. Tickets to that evening's 8:15 p.m. performance may be purchased separately for $34 or $15 for young people 17 and under.

The amphitheater is located on the campus of the College of St. Elizabeth, 2 Convent Rd. in Morris Township. Because NJ Transit track repair will close the Madison Ave./Rt. 124 entrance into the College of St. Elizabeth for several weeks in June, patrons should check www.ShakespeareNJ.org for updated information and directions to the Park Ave, entrance to the College.

The Outdoor Stage is supported by Bank of America, a partner of The Outdoor Stage since 2004. “We are immensely grateful to Bank of America for its steadfast backing,” Managing Director Jeanne Barrett said in a press release. “This partnership has helped make it possible for tens of thousands of patrons to enjoy extraordinary world-class productions under-the-stars.”

June 13, 2013

If you have Shakespearean news to share, e-mail editorial@shakespeareances.com