Changes at Hawrelak Park: How the Freewill Shakespeare Festival Is Adapting Amid Construction Delays
Imagine Shakespeare under the stars, not confined to a single park, but traveling from one vibrant community to another. This summer, that’s precisely what the Freewill Shakespeare Festival is doing. With Hawrelak Park undergoing extensive renovations, the festival has decided to hit the road, bringing the magic of Shakespeare to various local parks and community centers.
"It's like we're stepping back in time, traveling from one town to another, performing for different communities," says Chariz Faulmino, who portrays Miranda in this year's production of "The Tempest." For the next month, the entire festival—including set pieces and actors—will move to a new community each week.
Adapting to New Surroundings
Usually held in the picturesque amphitheater of Hawrelak Park, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival had to rethink its location due to ongoing construction. Artistic Director David Horak explains, "We needed to find a way to continue our passion for bringing Shakespeare to the public, and this year, we're performing in hockey rinks. It's a unique twist and a necessary adaptation."
The theater world is still reeling from the pandemic’s impact, making such flexibility crucial. For instance, Theatre Calgary had to cancel its annual Shakespeare by the Bow program this year due to budget issues. Horak believes that their mobile festival could draw in new audiences. "This production is very family-friendly," he says, "even young children will enjoy it."
A New Approach to an Old Tradition
Nadien Chu, who plays a gender-swapped version of Prospero named Prospera, sees this traveling format as a way to deepen the connection with audiences. "Instead of asking people to come to us, we're bringing the show to them," Chu explains. The festival's approach harkens back to the early days of theater when troupes traveled from town to town.
However, taking the show on the road does come with its own set of challenges. "Typically, we produce both a comedy and a tragedy," says Horak, "but this year, due to the logistical hurdles of moving, we decided to focus on just one play." They've chosen "The Tempest" for its rich blend of comedy, tragedy, and romance—ensuring there's something for everyone.
Catch the Festival in Your Community
The festival kicks off on June 20 at the Crestwood Community League. From there, it travels to Kenilworth from June 25 to 30, moves to Lessard from July 2 to 7, and concludes its journey in Sherbrooke from July 9 to 14. Each community brings its own unique vibe and flavor to the performances, making every show a new experience.
Highlights:
- Crestwood Community League: June 20 – 24
- Kenilworth: June 25 – 30
- Lessard: July 2 – 7
- Sherbrooke: July 9 – 14
A New Family Tradition
The Freewill Shakespeare Festival is not just about keeping the tradition alive; it’s about adapting and thriving in the face of challenges. By bringing their performances to various communities, they’re ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of Shakespeare, regardless of location.
This innovative approach could set a new precedent for how theater is shared, making it more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. So grab a picnic blanket, gather the family, and get ready to enjoy "The Tempest" as it was meant to be seen—under the open sky and amidst the vibrant energy of your local community.
