Teens Tackle Classic Love Story For the First Time During Camp Shakespeare’s 23rd Summer Here

MERCUTIO: “You are a lover Borrow cupid’s wings And soar with them Above a common bound.”

Thus begins the journey of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. A play well-remembered from high school English class, filled with old vendettas, heartbreaking bloodshed, passion that springs from love at first sight, masquerades, mischief, ecstatic joy and an unforgettable tragic conclusion. And in the telling of this, we have Shakespeare’s finest poetry and portrayal of passion, faith, and love.

Such is the challenge for the new group of Camp Shakespeareans who arrived in Fayette County on Sunday, July 2, 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.

“Believe it or not, this is the first time that Camp Shakespeare has explored Romeo and Juliet with a class of students.” Soto said. “The poetry of this play speaks to what it means to be human, to experience deep love and profound loss. It is a timeless story and we are honored to watch these young Shakespeareans bring it to life.”

Reservations for the performances are recommended but not required. For additional information about performance dates, times, and locations and to make your reservation please email robingracesoto@ utexas.edu or call (830) 460-1221.

Event Details:

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Presented by Camp Shakespeare at Winedale Friday, July 14, 3 p.m. at The Crystal Theatre in Gonzales Saturday, July 15, 3 p.m. at La Grange ISD Performing Arts Center in La Grange Sunday, July 16, 2 p.m. at the Winedale Theatre Barn in Winedale

Ticket Information:

Tickets are $10. Children 12 and under are free. For

ticket reservations, please contact Robin Grace Soto ( robingracesoto@ utexas.edu).

Tickets can be paid for at the door using cash, check, or card.

Contact Information:

Robin Grace Soto, Director of Camp Shakespeare at Winedale

robingracesoto@utexas.edu

(830) 460-1221

https://liberalarts.utexas. edu/winedale/programs/ camp-shakespeare/camp-information/ camp-performances. html