There is something irresistibly charming about Shakespeare in the park, enjoyed from Vancouver to London, Melbourne to New York. Here in Cape Town, Maynardville is home to our very own Shakespeare in the park, and each year more than 20 000 patrons attend the thrilling performances.
The annual Maynardville Open-Air Theatre, taking place this summer from 14 January to 21 February 2015, promises passion, love and betrayal in the local production of Othello. Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece comes to life as jealousy, passion and obsession powerfully combine in this devastating domestic tragedy. Othello, the Moor of Venice, is betrayed by his close friend, Iago, and proceeds to kill his beloved Desdemona. Being a prescribed school read, it’s the perfect opportunity for scholars to see the written work in action, while adults can brush up on their Shakespearean vocabulary.
The open-air theatre is situated in Maynardville Park, Wynberg, and its lush green lawns and towering trees ensures it’s one of the most-loved outdoor theatre venues in the Cape. The park opens as early as 7 am so arrive early and make a day of it with a picnic basket on the lawns before heading into the seated area. Tucked neatly between the swooping boughs of trees and staged as the sun is setting, an evening at Maynardville is romantic, gripping and ultimately entertaining.
This production features the internationally celebrated flair of award-winning duo Fred Abrahamse and Marcel Meyer, along with a company of Cape Town’s most exciting young classical actors. Alongside Othello, the ballet La Sylphide is also being performed and runs from Sunday 1 February to Sunday 22 February 2015.
OF NOTE
Where Maynardville Park, 20 Piers Street, cnr Wolfe & Piers Street, Wynberg
When 14 January – 21 February 2015
Cost R120–R180, computicket.com
Contact +27 21 421 7695, www.artscape.co.za
Photography Courtesy