Camp Shakespeare Students to Present The Winter’s Tale

A sad tale’s best for winter. I have one Of sprites and goblins. There was a man— Dwelt by a churchyard. I will tell it softly, Yond crickets shall not hear it.

Thus begins “The Winter’s Tale,” one of Shakespeare’s last plays. A play filled with wild imaginings, princes and princesses in disguise, death by drowning and grief, comic deception, oracles, man-eating bears, betrayal, music and unexpected joy. A world rich in language, rapid in movement, and riveting in its elements of magic and mystery. And in the telling of this, we have one of Shakespeare’s finest stories of suffering and tyranny giving way to compassion and forgiveness and the awakening of faith.

Such is the challenge for the new group of Camp Shakespeareans who arrived in Fayette County on Sunday, June 11, when they begin their exploration of the play. This is the 23rd summer for Camp Shakespeare, the experience for exploring Shakespeare through performance begun by University of Texas professor Jim (Doc) Ayres in 1964, finding its way to Winedale in 1970. Ayres now enjoys the role of “Director of Mission,” working with students on the language, having passed the directorship to Robin Grace Soto.

“The wonder of the “old tale” nature of this play will draw the audience into an exciting experience,” Soto said. “It has a strong, magnetic, appeal for all ages.” Reservations for the performances are recommended but not required.

For additional information about performance dates, times, and locations and to make your reservation, email robingracesoto@utexas. edu or call (830) 460-1221.

The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare resented by Camp Shakespeare at Winedale will be held Friday, June 23, 3 p.m. at The Crystal Theatre in Gonzales, Saturday, June 24, 3 p.m. at the La Grange ISD Performing Arts Center in La Grange, and Sunday, June 25, 2 p.m. at the Winedale Theatre Barn. Tickets are $10. Children 12 and under are free. For ticket reservations, contact Robin Grace Soto ( robingracesoto@ utexas.edu). Tickets can be paid for at the door using cash, check or card.