Shakespeare in the Parks opens its 50th season

The 50th season of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks (MSIP) is set to open with this season’s performances of Twelfth Night and for the first time in the company’s history, King Lear. Twelfth Night will show at Trout Creek Park on August 19 and King Lear will show at the Sanders County Fairgrounds in Plains on August 24. Both plays will begin at 6 p.m. and are free to attend.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be back on the road performing for audiences and inspiring everyone with a passion for Shakespeare’s greatest works,” said MSIP Executive Artistic Director Kevin Asselin. “It’s going to be a remarkable 50th season, where audiences can discover these magical tales of tragedy and love for themselves.”

Each year, Trout Creek Community Improvement Association and Plains Woman’s Club help bring MSIP back to the rural communities in Sanders County for free. Last year’s productions saw more than 50 audience members at each play.

Once again, this season, TCCIA will team up with Wayside Bar and Grill to help the cast and crew of MSIP feel welcome. “Stef Martin catered for them last year and she will be cooking for them again this year,” said TCCIA chairperson Liz Stender. “She donates her time and creativity. It’s Wayside’s way of helping bring Shakespeare to town and to try and make Trout Creek a more memorable experience for them.”

Make sure to mark your calendars for an evening of loyalty, madness and power in one of Shakespeare’s more famous tragedies, King Lear, and Twelfth Night, a romantic comedy centered around a love triangle where Viola loves Orsino, Orsino loves Olivia and Olivia loves Cesario – and everyone is miserable.

For those attending one of MSIP’s plays for the first time, make sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on, as well as something to snack on while enjoying the live theater. Visit shakespeareintheparks.org for the full schedule of Montana’s plays.