Summer Shakespeare: Timon of Athens

Overview

For the past 32 years, Wellington audiences have enjoyed annual theatrical productions of Shakespeare in stunning outdoor settings – Civic Square, Te Papa, and onsite at Victoria University. This year will be no different, with the Summer Shakespeare Trust announcing the 2015 Victoria University Summer Shakespeare will be Timon of Athens, directed by Brett Adam, and starring Hayden Frost (of The Almighty Johnson’s fame).

You’re forgiven for thinking the only Timon you’ve ever heard of is a singing meerkat from the Lion King. Timon of Athens is one of Shakespeare’s least known and most obscure plays - the last full production of the play in New Zealand was 150 years ago in Dunedin.

So why not the good ol' Macbeth from 7th form English? “Timon of Athens is just about the most obscure play in the canon, and yet it’s probably the most contemporary play Shakespeare ever wrote. After three very successful years with popular plays, it’s time for the Summer Shakespeare to take a genuine risk with a play that never gets done,” says Trust co-chair David Lawrence.

Timon of Athens tells the tale of the downfall of the city’s most popular and successful man, who ends up bankrupt and destitute. Timon lives a life of opulence, hosting lavish parties and mingling with Athens’ elite and privileged, but the moment his cash runs out his wealthy friends all turn their backs on him. Exchanging the comforts of the city for the harsh realities of the wilderness, Timon is forced to learn vital lessons about the true nature of humanity.

Brett Adam, Head of Directing at Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School, was attracted to the play by “not only its contemporary relevance but also its fable-like quality,” describing it as “a grand story with characters and situations that we can all recognise presented in a form that is entertaining, moving and funny; the perfect play for a balmy summer’s evening with friends and family in the Dell.”

Run as part of the Emerging Artist Trust, Summer Shakespeare actively supports and encourages up-and-coming artists in all areas – not only acting, but stage and costume design, marketing, 2D design, and production assistants. The community-based production has become something of a legacy, with cast and crew members volunteering their time and skill to showcase the amazing talent emerging from this city.

Victoria University Master of Interior Architecture candidates Alana Inglis and Ashleigh Jenner have worked tirelessly to create a stunning stage set, overcoming the challenges of the outdoor environment. They've had to quickly learn new technologies in the process, such as water jet cutting (yes, cutting stuff with water. I know, right?).

The outdoor venue means it’s practically impossible for the show to sell out – just turn up at the Botanical Gardens on the night with a picnic, a blanket, maybe a few cushions, and enjoy the show. Wet weather venue will be confirmed on the Summer Shakespeare website on the day. Tickets are available on the door and are extremely good value - general admission is $15, with $10 concessions.

Shows are on every Tuesday to Friday between 13th February and 28th February at 7pm, and Sundays at 4pm.