Brisbane Shakespeare Festival 2017

Overview

When it comes to the works of the man known as the Bard of Avon, there's really only one way to get the real Shakespeare experience. Sure, you probably studied his plays at school, and likely watched one or two that have been turned into films — but have you witnessed his lines read live in a theatre production?

That's how good ol' William intended his efforts to be consumed, after all, so one event is offering that chance to the masses. In its 11th iteration, the Brisbane Shakespeare Festival is back with another bustling program filled with flowery prose read aloud. Now that's how you commemorate more than four centuries years since his passing.

See Julius Caesar, on of his historical epics, performed for free across the city's outdoor spaces in Newstead, Bulimba and Sandgate, and arrive early to enjoy the clash and clatter that comes with a demonstration of swordplay beforehand. Or, head to local libraries across town for readings of Antony & Cleopatra and chats about the famous Globe Theatre, which is actually popping up in Melbourne for the next two months. A ticketed night of A Midsummer Night's Dream and Romeo and Juliet-inspired piano rounds out the program.