By: Sophia Lalaounis By: Sophia Lalaounis | January 15, 2025 | Feature, Events, culture, Entertainment,
Join the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival for a captivating performance of As You Like It at the Commons Park Amphitheater in Royal Palm Beach. From Jan. 30 to Feb. 2, this inaugural winter festival promises an evening of classic theater, live music, and delightful performances in an open-air setting.
The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival brings a unique cultural experience to Royal Palm Beach with its inaugural wintertime festival. From Jan. 30 to Feb. 2, the Shakespeare by the Palms V production of As You Like It will grace the Commons Park Amphitheater, offering an enchanting evening of live theater. Presented by The Village of Royal Palm Beach and sponsored by Gary and Katherine Parr, this event promises to be a highlight of the season. With performances from 8-10 p.m. each night, the festival invites residents and seasonal visitors to indulge in a night of classic Shakespearean theater.
Lee Ritter as Rosalind. Photo Credits: Jeffrey Langlois
Under the direction of artistic director Trent Stephens, the production is set to captivate audiences with a brilliant script and a talented ensemble cast. The role of Rosalind will be portrayed by Lee Ritter, last year’s Dr. Kevin Crawford Fellowship recipient, alongside Tristen Hooks as Orlando. Festival veterans Sara Grant and Madi Fernandez will also bring their craft to the stage, joined by guest artists Ben Lusk and Daryl Willis. A distinctive feature of this production is the inclusion of live music, with Lusk performing throughout the show, further elevating the experience.
Tristen Hooks as Orlando. Photo Credits: Jeffrey Langlois
As You Like It tells the story of Rosalind’s journey from the Royal Court to the Forest of Arden, where she navigates romance, wit, and familial disputes. Disguised as a shepherd, Rosalind engages with Orlando in a playful game of love and identity, weaving together themes of transformation and reconciliation. As the performance unfolds, the audience will be treated to a dynamic and engaging portrayal of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies.
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, beach chair, or blanket to enjoy the open-air venue, where concessions will also be available. This celebration of art and culture marks the beginning of the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival’s 35th Anniversary season, setting the stage for even more remarkable performances to come. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $5, ensuring accessibility while offering a chance to support the arts. For more details on this production and upcoming events, click here. 11600 Poinciana Blvd, Royal Palm Beach
Photography by: Photo Credits: Jeffrey Langlois