Shakespeare Under The Stars 2020–21

Overview

The Australian Shakespeare Company is back with another round of Shakespeare Under the Stars, bringing the Bard's famed works to your summer must-see list. And, Melburnians have two choices — including a light and lively comedy, plus a dark and brooding tragedy.

In the first category sits A Midsummer Night's Dream, running from Friday, December 18–Sunday, January 24. Following an impending marriage, feuding lovers and an amateur acting troupe, it's set in a forest full of fairies — so the fact that you'll be watching in Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens is rather apt. The production stars Hugh Sexton as Theseus and Oberon, and Alison Whyte as Hipolyta and Titania.

Then, from Saturday, January 30–Saturday, March 6 in the same place, you can settle in for one of the historic playwright's best-known and moodiest works: Macbeth. Get ready for a story of the conflict between morality and power, as the lead character as he becomes consumed by ambition, following a prophecy that he will become the King of Scotland.

Patrons are encouraged to pack a picnic, nab a spot on the grass and enjoy the sunset before watching either show — or both. There'll also be an onsite bar, and you can pre-order catering, too. And, obviously, everything will be happening in a COVID-19-safe way.