Shakespeare in the Park event relocated to RiverPark due to flooding

Due to flooding at Island Park from this week's storms, the Shakespeare in the Park performance will have a new location this year along the Fox River.

The free event will start at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 15, at RiverPark, 151 N. River Lane.

People are encouraged to arrive early - seating opens at 5 p.m. - given the more intimate venue, but the show will go on as planned.

"RiverPark is the best possible location under the circumstances," Event Chair Gail Gaboda said. "We wanted to keep the event downtown, and we will accommodate as many people as possible."

The Midsummer Theatre troupe will perform "As You Like It," which explores the transformative power of love, and how it turns enemies into allies. This 90-minute family-friendly performance is designed to entertain children and adults alike. Double-entendres, slapstick humor, physical gags and dynamic actors are sure to provide laughs for all ages.

The venue may provide the crowd less room to spread out, but it allows the actors more creative license in staging the performance, adding an interactive component with the audience, according to Kristen Duerdoth, executive director of the theater troupe.

Now in its 11th year, Shakespeare in the Park is presented by the Geneva Cultural Arts Commission.

Admission is free ($5 suggested donation).

A preshow dance performance begins at 6 p.m. followed by the play. The audience is encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnic dinners to enjoy the Ravinia-style theater experience.

The Geneva Public Library District will offer a preshow Shakespeare-inspired craft activity for elementary school-aged children at 5 p.m. at the park.

RiverPark is located on North River Lane near Peyton Street along the west bank of the Fox River.

For more information, visit www.genevarts.org or www.facebook.com/GenevaShakespeareInThePark/.