This Friday we’ll be celebrating the Festival’s birthday! On July 13, 1953, Festival founder Tom Patterson’s “big idea” became a reality when our inaugural performance of Richard III – directed by Tyrone Guthrie and starring Alec Guinness and Irene Worth – took to the stage. Fifty-nine years later, Mr. Patterson’s dream of starting a classical theatre to revitalize a struggling industry town remains one of the most inspirational stories of Canadian theatre!

From its humble beginnings in a tent along the Avon River to its current status as the largest classical repertory theatre in North America (and the second-largest Shakespeare festival in the world) the Festival has come a long way in its sixty seasons. Our five venues have welcomed more than 25 million visitors over the years – and that certainly gives us cause for celebration!

Want to learn more about the Stratford story, starting with that “glorious summer” way back in 1953? Read it here!

Stratford Shakespeare Festival: 1953

Stratford Shakespeare Festival: Present Day

Celebrate our big 6-0 with 1953 pricing!
Buy one full-priced ticket to any performance of Henry V or Much Ado About Nothing in July or August, and receive your second ticket for the rate you would have paid during our first season –  $6 for A+ seating, $4 for A seating, $3 for B seating and $1 for C seating! Hurry, this retro promotion only lasts until our birthday, July 13, at midnight!

Here’s how to order your tickets!
1)      Log into our website with promotion code 44739
2)      Select any July or August performance of Henry V  or Much Ado About Nothing from our calendar
3)      Set the price type to ADULT using the drop-down menu at the top of the “Select Your Seats” page
4)      Select your seats (the promotion will be applied to your order automatically when you choose your second seat)
5)      Complete your transaction
6)      Enjoy the show!

Share a special memory from one of the past fifty-nine seasons in the comment box below!

*Offer may expire without notice. Not valid on MMP performances or in conjunction with any other promotion, including SSP, Family Experience, TiXX and PlayOn. Promotion is available through our Box Office, our website or Stratford Social Ticketing on the Festival’s Facebook page. Offer is only valid for Festival Theatre Shakespeare plays in July and August. Promotion ends on July 13 at 11:59 p.m. Some conditions apply.

Henry V, featuring Aaron Krohn in the title role, will open on Friday, July 13, the Festival’s anniversary. Wednesday sees the opening of Wanderlust, a new musical commissioned by the Festival from Morris Panych and Marek Norman, based on the poetry of Robert Service. Daniel MacIvor’s new play The Best Brothers, workshopped at the Festival and directed by Associate Artistic Director Dean Gabourie, opens Thursday afternoon, followed that evening by Hirsch, which celebrates the life and career of former Artistic Director John Hirsch. Developed at Stratford over the past three years, Hirsch was created and conceived by Alon Nashman and Paul Thompson.

“One of my proudest achievements at the Festival is to have mounted a celebratory 60^th season that features Canadian works in such abundance,” says Mr. McAnuff, who concludes his tenure as Artistic Director at the end of 2012 and was recently appointed to the Order of Canada. “Fully 50 per cent of the productions on our playbill this year are written by Canadians. They represent an enormous range of dramatic genres, showcasing the talent that has developed in Canada’s rich theatrical landscape since the founding of the Festival 60 years ago.”

“This second round of openings heralds the beginning of the summer season in Stratford,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino, who has been named the Festival’s next Artistic Director. “We have recently been showcased as a top destination by a number of influential media outlets, establishing even further the appeal of this idyllic city. We hope people recognize what an ideal vacation spot Stratford is and include a visit to the Festival in their holiday plans. This year’s productions have won critical acclaim across the board and have been delighting audiences since the season began in April.”

Inspired by the success of Jesus Christ Superstar on Broadway, The New York Times visited Stratford this spring and trumpeted the joys of the city and the Festival in its travel section in June. NPR (National Public Radio) in the U.S. has chosen to include Stratford in a feature of five significant cultural destinations in North America, the only one in Canada. Frommer’s included Stratford as a Top 10 Canadian Summer Vacation Destination; Reader’s Digest featured Stratford in its Top 10 Canadian Road Trips; and Trip Advisor named Stratford one of Canada’s Top 10 Cultural Destinations. Stratford has also been chosen as an iconic Canadian experience for travel writer Robin Esrock’s upcoming book The Great Canadian Bucket List.

Next to open this season is A Word or Two, written, arranged and performed by Christopher Plummer, which is being presented as a special 60^th season event. Directed by Mr. McAnuff, the production, which begins previews on July 25 and opens August 2, is an autobiographical journey through the literature that has stirred the actor’s imagination since youth. Mr. Plummer, who this year won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for his performance in the film Beginners, is one of the Festival’s most lauded alumni, first appearing at Stratford in 1956 in the title role of Henry V. This will be the third collaboration between Mr. Plummer and Mr. McAnuff at the Festival; their first two projects, Caesar and Cleopatra, in which Mr. Plummer played Julius Caesar, and The Tempest, in which he played Prospero, have also been captured on film for cinematic release.

The season’s final offering, Sophokles’ Elektra, translated by Canadian poet Anne Carson, will open August 11, featuring Yanna McIntosh in the title role and Seana McKenna as Clytemestra.

In addition to Henry V, the season features two other Shakespeares – Cymbeline, directed by Mr. Cimolino, which is being praised as one of the finest ever productions of this challenging classic, and Much Ado About Nothing. Three musicals are also on stage – 42nd Street, The Pirates of Penzance, and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown – as well as Thornton Wilder’s comedy The Matchmaker, which is being hailed as the feel-good show of the year. The War of 1812, by Canadian playwright Michael Hollingsworth, opened on Canada Day, and MacHomer, created and performed by Rick Miller, enjoyed a limited engagement at Stratford in May.

The Festival marked its 60^th season by publishing Stratford Behind the Scenes, a full-colour book that reveals the complexities of season planning and captures the superb artistry carried out by the Festival’s costumes, props, sets and wigs departments. An ebook of Stratford Behind the Scenes will be launched this summer.

An archival exhibition, Most Rare Visions: 60 Years of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, is open to the public daily at 104 Downie Street, across from the Avon Theatre. It features costumes, unique artefacts and props, plus rare footage and new interviews with key players in the Festival’s history

Since its founding 60 years ago, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival has welcomed more than 25 million visitors. Originally conceived as an economic stimulus for the community, the Festival now generates about $140 million in economic activity annually. It employs 1,000 people and creates 3,000 full-year jobs.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s 2012 season runs until October 28. To purchase tickets, visit www.stratfordshakespearefestival.com or call 1.800.567.1600.

The cabaret-style evening filled with music, stories and laughter is a celebration of Ms. Peacock’s 25 seasons at the Festival. Most Friday nights in July and August the after-hours series will invite ticket-holders to watch Ms Peacock and several invited artists and friends share their talents and passions in a casual setting.

“Lucy has such an insatiable creative spirit,” says Artistic Director Des McAnuff. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with her on three occasions and her energy and warmth are both luminous and inspirational. I am so pleased the Festival is able to host this fun and joyful cabaret series as part of our 60^th season.”

“I am very excited to attend this series,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “To watch these artists perform material of their own choosing, that they’re passionate about and that speaks to them, will be a real treat for those in attendance. This light-hearted and fun-filled evening will undoubtedly be an entertaining and jubilant celebration of music and theatre.”

Artists joining Ms Peacock this evening are:

Anna Atkinson, Richard Binsley, Laura Burton, Laura Condlln, Shawn DeSouza, Ryan Field, Graham Hargrove, David Keeley, Aidan Keeley, Claire Lautier, Ken MacDonald, Nora McLennan, Alon Nashman and Geraint Wyn Davies.

For more information on Late Night with Lucy please visit: http://www.stratfordfestival.ca/OnStage/beyond.aspx?id=17058.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s 2012 season runs until October 28, featuring Much Ado About Nothing; 42^nd Street, The Matchmaker; Henry V; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Pirates of Penzance; A Word or Two; Cymbeline; Wanderlust; Elektra; The Best Brothers; Hirsch and The War of 1812.

Some of my absolute best theatre experiences have come out of seeing new shows. Last year, The Little Years absolutely blew me away. I didn’t know a whole lot about the production before I went to see it, but I went into it with an open mind and found it refreshing to see a new work! This year we have the incredible privilege of having not one, not two, but three world premières on our stages, all written by Canadians: The Best Brothers, by Daniel MacIvor; Hirsch, by Alon Nashman and Paul Thompson; and Wanderlust, by Morris Panych and Marek Norman. If you’ve never taken a chance on a new play or musical, I want to encourage you to join us this season for one or all three of our world premières.

I’ve been to see all three shows now, so let me give you a little bit more information about each of them!

The Best Brothers
By Daniel MacIvor; Directed by Dean Gabourie.

If you’ve ever had a sibling, mother or dog, or have lost a relative (that’s pretty much all of us), this show will hit home. The Best Brothers follows the brothers Kyle (played by John Beale) and Hamilton (played by Daniel MacIvor) as they cope with the death of their mother, Ardith “Bunny” Best. The two of them are like oil and water, which means that the already difficult task of arranging their mother’s affairs is even more trying. But together, through their struggle (which is coloured with humour), they come to learn more about themselves, each other and the woman who gave them life. The Best Brothers will have you laughing, crying and, more than likely, identifying with Mr. MacIvor’s beautifully imperfect characters.

“Best Brothers was excellent! Definitely in my top three plays of the year at the Festival.” – Facebook

Hirsch
By Alon Nashman and Paul Thompson; Directed by Paul Thompson.

Hirsch allows us a look at the personal and artistic life of past Stratford Shakespeare Festival Artistic Director John Hirsh, with powerful effect. A happy and art-filled childhood ends very darkly for a young John Hirsch, who was orphaned at age thirteen in the Holocaust. After three years wandering alone in Europe, Hirsch finds sanctuary in Winnipeg, Canada. Alon Nashman, who portrays Hirsch, highlights the director’s amazing talent and fiery temperament, which made him a fierce cultural force on the national and international theatre scenes. Throughout the play we are reminded of the painful formative experiences that shaped Hirsch’s life. On more than one occasion I found myself in tears as Mr. Nashman embodied them vividly on the stage of the Studio Theatre. But with the hurt there is also hope, humour and joy – all of which weave into a stunning tapestry of a life that was truly extraordinary.

“Just caught a preview of #ssfHirsch … wow, wow, wow!!! So inspired. Alon Nashman is brilliant!” – Twitter

Wanderlust
Book by Morris Panych; Music by Marek Norman; Based on the poems of Robert Service with additional lyrics by Morris Panych; Directed by Morris Panych.

Wanderlust, a new musical based on the poems of Robert Service, has absolutely captivated me! If you’re expecting a biographical retelling of Service’s life, you might be in for a bit of a surprise. Morris Panych – who adapted and directed Moby Dick (2008) and wrote and directed The Trespassers (2009) – uses the poems of Service to tell a story about imagination and the liminal space between dreaming and doing. Tom Rooney takes the lead as the Bard of the Yukon, Robert Service, and Panych leverages Service’s fictional characters, Louise (played by Robin Hutton), Dan McGrew (played by Dan Chameroy), Mr. McGee (played by Randy Hughson) and Mrs. Munch (played by Lucy Peacock) as his real-life friends and foes. The result is pure imagination! Mr. Norman’s beautiful score is quite literally music to your ears. Unlike some modern musicals there is a beautiful sense of fluidity and use of melody that ties the production together. The set, the staging, and the lighting … well, you’ll just have to come and see for yourself!

“#ssfwanderlust was amazing. The best, most innovative staging I have seen this year. Well done again @stratfest!” – Twitter

Try something new this year and join us for The Best Brothers, Hirsch and Wanderlust!  Here’s the best part: if you purchase tickets to any of these shows between today and Monday, July 9, at 11:59 p.m., you can take advantage of our special $39 world première ticket deal!

Here’s what you need to do to take advantage of this limited-time offer:

1. Log into our website at www.stratfordfestival.ca with promotion code 44722
2. Select any performance of The Best Brothers, Hirsch or Wanderlust in July (excluding their openings)
3. Select your own seats
4. Complete your checkout
5. Enjoy the show!

*Offer may expire without notice. Not valid on MMP performances or in conjunction with any other promotion, including SSP, Family Experience, TiXX and PlayOn. Offer is not available on A+ seating. Promotion is only available online through our website or through Stratford Social Ticketing on the Festival’s Facebook page. Promotion excludes the July 11 performance of Wanderlust and the July 12 performances of The Best Brothers and Hirsch.

We’re giving away 25 pairs of tickets to the evening performance of Henry V on July 7^th!  Here’s what you need to do to win!*

1. E-mail socialmedia@stratfordfestival.ca and finish this quote from the Henry V St. Crispin’s Day speech:

If we are mark’d to die, we are enow
To do our country loss; and if to live,
The fewer men,________________.

2. Include your first name, last name, phone number and Stratford Shakespeare Festival account number.

If you don’t know your Festival account number, log into our website at www.stratfordfestival.ca.  Once you’ve logged in, select My Account from the top left corner of our home page.  Your account number will be listed on this page under Account #.

We’ll contact 25 luck winners and e-mail you a pair of tickets!

*Submissions that do not include the information requested in part 1 and 2 will not be considered valid entries and will not be eligible to win a pair of tickets.

Photo Credit: Aaron Krohn as King Henry in Henry V. Photo by David Hou.

Antoni Cimolino’s Cymbeline now playing at the Stratford Festival is Shakespeare comme il faut. It’s intelligently staged, powerfully acted, essential theatre. The last time I saw a Cymbeline of this calibre was in 1986, when the Robin Phillips World War II version played the Festival Stage. (This is the third Stratford production. I wasn’t around to see the first, directed by Jean Gascon in 1970.)

This Cymbeline is more intimate than the Phillips one, played in the three-quarter-round within the much smaller Tom Patterson Theatre. But this suits the play well.

The acting team is impressive, with the always formidable Geraint Wyn Davies as the Celtic King Cymbeline who has stopped paying duties to the Roman Emperor upon the (bad) advice of his scheming wife (played witch-wicked by Yanna McIntosh). Cara Ricketts is a charming Princess Imogen, playing opposite Graham Abbey as her exiled husband Posthumous.

But in a play were few can be trusted it’s the villains who offer optimum acting opportunities. Hence Tom McCamus gets to be deliciously evil as the conniving Iachimo who sets out to seduce Imogen on a bet. And Mike Shara is postively barbaric as Cloten, Imogen’s despicable stepbrother.

The fact that Cimolino has cast so well and trusted the actors to deliver in this text-respecting production with just enough spectacle to give it a bit of pizzazz (watch  for Jupiter and the flying eagle) bodes well for the future of the festival under his leadership.

10:54 a.m. already? I grab my notebook and pencil case and dash down to the Festival Theatre lobby, leaving behind the comfort of my little desk in the Festival’s Advancement Office. Just as I approach the wooden stage opposite the Theatre Store kiosk, I slow my pace. I want to look cool and collected—not awkward. (This is a constant fear when you have assumed the title of “Summer Intern.”) Today I am covering my first Beyond the Stage event: Lobby Talks.

I’m surprised. The chairs arranged around the stage are completely filled with over 60 Festival goers of all ages (I counted). I take a spare chair in the back row. There is excited chatter. It is only the second Lobby Talks of the season and the first on Much Ado About Nothing. It feels like a family reunion: Festival lovers meeting with fellow Festival lovers. With the arrival of July and the opening of a new set of shows just days away, the 60^th season is about to kick into high gear.

The audience hushes. David Prosser has arrived.

Mr. Prosser is the Director of Communications at the Festival, and also the presenter of Lobby Talks. He takes his place on the stage after a few moments. The grand piano for the Festival’s Night Music concerts has assumed its territory over the majority of the platform.  Mr. Prosser begins. He uses no notes.

I cannot write fast enough. I feel like I am back in one of the lecture halls at university—minus the feelings of lethargy and boredom.

“We would have heard a very different English to ours in Shakespeare’s day,” Mr. Prosser tells us. In Shakespeare’s English the word “nothing” (as in Much Ado About Nothing) would have sounded like the word “noting” (i.e. to take note of, to eavesdrop, or overhear, or a reference to musical notes). Each of these meanings of the word can be found in Much Ado. The title of the play, it would seem, is indicative of the wit that the audience will see from the famed lovers Beatrice and Benedick.

But of course, before their two hearts can be joined, they must confront their own distrust of marriage and love. Not an easy task in Shakespeare’s day.

“Deep-rooted male fear of marriage and cuckoldry—” Mr. Prosser starts.

Cuckoldry?

I look up from my notebook. He explains, “A cuckold refers to a man whose wife has been unfaithful.” The term, he continues, is symbolized by a set of horns upon the deceived husband’s head. Scholars do not understand the association. There are plenty of theories… with plenty of faults.

Cracks about cuckoldry would have left Shakespeare’s audiences howling; however, nowadays they often go unrecognized. The closest modern-day equivalent to these jokes, Mr. Prosser posits, is the classic prank of making bunny ears behind the head of an unsuspecting individual.

The audience is clearly taken with this topic. At the end of Mr. Prosser’s half-hour “ramble,” he invites us to ask questions; unsurprisingly, people want to talk more about cuckoldry. When the conversation wraps up at 11:45, I gather my belongings and begin to walk through the crowd of excited, chatty patrons back to the office. But before I get there, I pause and reflect. I now fully understand the play’s historical context, themes, plot, characters… and why Ben Carlson, our Benedick, ran rampant around the stage with his index fingers on either side of his head.

Lobby Talks are free half-hour chats presented by David Prosser. They occur at 11:00 a.m. on a selection of weekdays between June and September. This year’s talks cover Much Ado About Nothing and Henry V.

Madeleine is a summer intern in the Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s Advancement Office. She is a student at the University of Toronto and Sheridan College who will be blogging about the Festival’s Beyond the Stage events for the month of July.

Project Manager/Database Administrator

Reporting to the Director of Marketing & Audience Development you will be expected to plan, execute, and finalize projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan. The Project Manager will also define the project’s objectives and oversee quality control throughout its life cycle. The Database Administrator component includes working with our IT department providing technical support for the database environment; overseeing the development and organization of the databases, assessment and implementation of new technologies.

As a qualified candidate you will possess a post-secondary education including three years of direct work experience in a project management capacity, including all aspects of process development and execution. You will have a strong understanding of all project management and Database software, programming language and have competent and proficient understanding of platforms including a solid working knowledge of current Internet technologies. Familiarity with programing language such as ASP.NET(C#), .NET 2,3.5,4, Transact SQL, PowerBuilder and Infomaker is expected. Past experience with Microsoft SQL Server (2000, 2005, 2008), MySQL, Microsoft Windows Server 2003, 2008, Windows XP, 7 and OS X Snow Leopard and Lion is beneficial.  Competent and proficient understanding of platforms, such as Citrix Presentation Server, VMware vSphere and View, Client/Server N-tier Architecture, Web Services, REST Services, Microsoft SharePoint and SSRS/SSIS is essential. You are required to have experience in Performance Tuning, Query Optimization, using Performance Monitor, SQL Profiler and other related monitoring and troubleshooting tools.

Positive and open-minded you have strong written and verbal skills with a keen interest in the arts.  You are self-motivated and have the ability to work independently or in a team environment. This full time position will begin immediately.

We recognize that diversity- in our workplace, in our audiences and on our stages- fosters a rich and creative environment. We are actively engaged in building a more diverse workplace and encourage all qualified applicants to apply by July 13, 2012.

Human Resources
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Fax: 519-271-0626
55 Queen Street
Stratford, Ontario N5A 6V2
E-mail: resumes@stratfordshakespearefestival.com
Subject: Project Manager/Database Administrator

If you’re going to be in Stratford on Wednesday, July 18, I want to invite you to a very special event!  World-renowned voice and Shakespeare teacher Patsy Rodenburg will be hosting a live masterclass with six Festival favourites: Bethany Jillard, Seana McKenna, Gareth Potter, Tom Rooney, Tyrone Savage and Sophia Walker.

The work of vocal coaching is an integral part of an actor’s preparation for the stage and usually done behind closed doors. Here at the Festival we have provided actors with training in voice and text since our very first season. Ours is the longest-running coaching program of its kind in the English-speaking world – so what better way to celebrate our 60th season than to host an international leader in the fields of voice and Shakespeare!

Ms Rodenburg isn’t a stranger to the Festival. John Hirsch, Artistic Director of the Festival from 1981 to 1985, first brought her to Stratford to work with the company during his tenure. Patsy coached many fabulous Festival veterans, Nicholas Pennell among them. Throughout the years we have been lucky enough to have Ms Rodenburg visit as a guest coach, and we’re honoured to have her back with us to celebrate our 60^th season.

Here’s a clip of Patsy Rodenburg giving two powerful reasons why she does theatre.

Here’s a bit more information about Ms Rodenburg:
Patsy Rodenburg, OBE, has been the Director of Voice at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London for 26 years and until recently at the Royal National Theatre. She trained in Voice Studies at the Central School of Speech and Drama and is recognized as one of the world’s leading voice teachers and coaches, and also as a renowned authority on Shakespeare. Patsy has worked regularly with the best-known actors of the British theatre, including Judi Dench, Ian McKellen and Daniel Day-Lewis, to name a few, as well as many of the biggest stars of film and television, such as Nicole Kidman, Orlando Bloom, Hugh Jackman and Natalie Portman. She was previously in residence with the Royal Shakespeare Company for nine years and has worked with The Royal Court Theater, Donmar and Almeida Theater in London. She has also worked extensively with many of the great world theatres, such as the Moscow Art Theatre and Comédie-Française.

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to see Ms Rodenburg work with our company members. Join us on July 18 at 11:00 a.m. at the Studio Theatre! Tickets are $35 and are available through our Box Office at 1.800.567.1600 or through our website.

Support for Patsy Rodenburg’s visit to the Festival generously provided by Riki Turofsky and Charles Petersen.

Food Prep/Customer Service – Food and Beverage department

Reporting to the Greenroom Chef, this casual position is responsible for providing both superior customer service in the Greenroom and assistance to the Greenroom staff with the daily food preparation and clean-up. Applicants must be flexible, have the ability to juggle multiple tasks, manage their time effectively and genuinely enjoy the service aspect of this position. Previous experience in a fast-paced food service or retail environment is an asset. Past experience with a POS system is required. Applicants must be able to create and support a positive environment and remain calm and patient during busy service times.

This seasonal casual position will start immediately and end October 28, 2012. Successful candidates must be able to fulfill the entire contract period. The successful candidate must be available to work days and evenings during both weekdays and weekends.

We recognize that diversity- in our workplace, in our audiences and on our stages- fosters a rich and creative environment. We are actively engaged in building a more diverse workplace and encourage all qualified applicants to apply by July 8, 2012.

Human Resources
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Fax: 519-271-0626
55 Queen Street
Stratford, Ontario N5A 6V2
E-mail: resumes@stratfordshakespearefestival.com
Subject: Food Prep/Customer Service Representative

Written by Daniel MacIvor, Best Brothers tells the story of Hamilton and Kyle Best, two brothers with very different dispositions: one is more serious and introverted, the other ebullient. The siblings are driven together by their mother’s accidental death, forcing them to contend with their different modes of mourning as they sort out the details surrounding the funeral – as well as who gets their mother’s voraciously omnivorous dog.

“I adore Daniel’s humour and his insights into how these two brothers deal with their grief,” says Mr. Gabourie. “He shows such sensitivity and eloquence of emotion; it really is quite awe-inspiring.”

Mr. MacIvor also performs in the production as Hamilton alongside John Beale, who plays Kyle.

“Daniel MacIvor is a truly brilliant playwright,” says Artistic Director Des McAnuff. “He writes dialogue in a deceptively minimalist style that so delights us with its comedy that we are taken unawares by the powerful emotional payoff that he has been preparing for us all along. It’s a tremendous privilege to be premièring his new work  and to be welcoming him and John into our company.”

“This is a deliciously funny and smart play about the unique and sometimes complicated relationships we have with our families,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “It’s a joy to watch Daniel MacIvor and John Beale create the dynamic between these two siblings on stage, and the result is a production that is as hilarious as it is tender-hearted. A glorious tribute to the complexities of family, this play is not to be missed.”

Production support is generously provided by Sylvia D. Chrominska and Dr. Nancy Epstein and Dr. David Goldbloom.

This year, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival celebrates its 60^th season, with 14 productions presented from April 12 to October 28:  Much Ado About Nothing; 42nd Street; The Matchmaker; Henry V; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Pirates of Penzance; A Word or Two; Cymbeline; Wanderlust; Elektra; MacHomer; The Best Brothers; Hirsch; and The War of 1812.

VideoCabaret is one of Canada’s most creative and imaginative theatre ensembles. The company, which won a Dora Award last night for Outstanding Costume Design and was nominated in four other categories for The Life and Times of Mackenzie King, was founded by Michael Hollingsworth and Deanne Taylor. Since its inception in 1976 VideoCabaret has created many enduring plays, and with renowned designers and actors has devised spectacularly original styles of performance including black-box epics, multi-media cabarets, musicals, opera and masquerades.

The War of 1812 tells the story of a Native confederation led by the Shawnee chief Tecumseh that defends its own territory by joining in the defence of Canada when America declares war on Britain and her empire. After three years of bloodshed on land and lake, the Yankees have burned York, the Yorkees have burned Washington, and everyone has burned the Natives.

“The History of the Village of the Small Huts is a comedy of manners, satirizing Canada’s various colonial periods,” says Mr. Hollingsworth, who wrote and directed the play. “It is a historical epic for an audience raised on rock and TV. It is the goons of history in their very own Goon Show. It is the Canadian book of the dead, a merry tale told by ghosts and demons.”

The production features performers Greg Campbell, Richard Alan Campbell, Richard Clarkin, Mac Fyfe, Jacob James, Linda Prystawska, Anand Rajaram and Michaela Washburn.

“I have admired Michael Hollingsworth’s work since the 1970s,” says Artistic Director Des McAnuff. “Michael and I grew up one suburb apart in Scarborough and I am extremely proud of his highly evolved body of work. Not only is VideoCabaret’s The History of the Village of the Small Huts a substantial Canadian theatrical achievement, it also represents the life’s work of this extraordinary playwright. The War of 1812 is a thrilling account of the famous conflict and a perfect way for us to mark its bicentennial.”

“We are delighted to welcome VideoCabaret’s exciting production to our newest performance space,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “The War of 1812 offers an exhilarating look at our country’s rich history that will surely spark debate and fuel discussion – an essential byproduct of live theatre.”

The artistic team for this production includes Associate Director Deanne Taylor, Set and Lighting Designer Andy Moro, Costume Designer Astrid Janson and Composer Brent Snyder.

The War of 1812 is sponsored by BMO Financial Group.

This year, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival celebrates its 60^th season, with 14 productions presented from April 12 to October 28:  Much Ado About Nothing; 42nd Street; The Matchmaker; Henry V; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Pirates of Penzance; A Word or Two; Cymbeline; Wanderlust; Elektra; MacHomer; The Best Brothers; Hirsch; and The War of 1812.

Audio Describer

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival is currently seeking 3-4 experienced Audio Describers to provide live audio description for selected performances for patrons with vision disabilities.

Ideal candidates will have previous experience with audio description for live events or theatre.  Alternatively, applicants may have past experience in descriptive video or related fields and are interested in learning about live theatre description. Selected candidates must be available to participate in audition/training sessions Friday evening August 10^th, Saturday August 11^th and Sunday August 12^th. Those selected from the training sessions will be required to describe 1-3 performances this season at the Festival Theatre.

Along with a resume and references you are requested to provide a sample of an audio description you have performed. (eg. Audio tape, video tape, or web link)

We recognize that diversity- in our workplace, in our audiences and on our stages- fosters a rich and creative environment. We are actively engaged in building a more diverse workplace and encourage all qualified applicants to apply by July 6, 2012 to;

Human Resources
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Fax: 519-271-0626
55 Queen Street
Stratford, Ontario N5A 6V2
E-mail: resumes@stratfordshakespearefestival.com
Subject: Audio Describer

I like to think of Shakespeare’s Henry V as the granddaddy of all historical action films. If you’re looking for thrills, the Festival’s upcoming production will deliver: battles, strategy and rousing speeches (plus a touching courtship) are just some of the elements that make up this epic history play. Does it sound a bit like Braveheart, The Patriot, Apocalypse Now or Saving Private Ryan? Methinks… yes!

 Henry V is the fourth play in what is commonly referred to as the Henriad – Shakespeare’s second set of history plays, composed of Richard II, Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, and Henry V. If you’re not familiar with these works, or if you’re in need of a refresher, we’ve created a short trailer to catch you up on the story.

Henry V arguably has one of the most gripping battle scenes that you’ll ever see on stage. It’s based on the historic Battle of Agincourt, which was fought by the armies of England and France on October 25, 1415. In Shakespeare’s play, the French army “have full threescore thousand” troops – which means that the 3000 exhausted English soldiers are up against “fearful odds.” But the English manage to rally the courage they need to take arms, thanks in no small part to Henry’s stirring words of motivation, known as the St. Crispin’s Day speech. It’s one of those moments in Shakespeare that just grabs you and pulls you in – I’m so looking forward to seeing it!

Helmed by our Artistic Director, Des McAnuff, the Festival’s production features a massive wooden set with a working drawbridge and an impressive raked stage that will transport you back to the medieval era. It’s going to be spectacular!

Aaron Krohn (whom you might remember from last season when he played Lenny in The Homecoming) will be leading the troops in the role of Henry V, along with Ben Carlson as Captain Fluellen, Juan Chioran as Montjoy, Deborah Hay as Alice, Lucy Peacock as the Hostess, Tom Rooney as Ensign Pistol and Timothy D. Stickney as the Duke of Exeter – just to name a few.

Find out Juan Chioran’s take on this exciting show!

Henry V starts previews this weekend! Dive into the action for $25 when you come to any preview performance.* Log into our website with promotion code 44377, or try our new Stratford Social Ticketing Application on Facebook! (You can use the same promotion code.) Don’t delay – this offer is only available until Monday, June 25, at 11:59 p.m.!

Here’s a bit more information about our new Social Ticketing Application, and a “how-to guide” to help you plan an outing with your friends!

*Offer may expire without notice. Not valid on MMP performances or in conjunction with any other promotion, including SSP, Family Experience, TiXX and PlayOn. Offer is not available on A+ seating. Promotion is only available online through our website or through Stratford Social Ticketing on the Festival’s Facebook page.

This world première production is a fiery invocation of one of the country’s theatrical pioneers. Performed by Alon Nashman and conceived and created by Mr. Nashman and director Paul Thompson, the play presents Hirsch as a trailblazing artist and unique personality, one who left a mark on Canadian theatre and Canadian theatre artists that endures to this day.

A native of Hungary, Hirsch lost his family in the Holocaust and survived years of wandering in post-war Europe, finally arriving as a refugee in Winnipeg in 1947. He then went on to help define the course of Canadian culture in the latter half of the twentieth century. His accomplishments were many: as well as co-founding the country’s first regional theatre, the Manitoba Theatre Centre, he was Head of Drama at the CBC in the 1970s and served two stints at Stratford, as Associate Director from 1967 to 1969 and as Artistic Director from 1981 to 1985.

The play, developed at Stratford in a series of residencies and workshops over the past three years, chronicles his life from his childhood in pre-war Hungary to his early death in 1989.

“John Hirsch’s contribution to the development of Canadian theatre was incalculable,” says Artistic Director Des McAnuff. “His work, both here at the Festival and elsewhere, was informed by his searing passion for truth in art and by his profound understanding of the darkness and the light that co-exist in the human soul. I am delighted that in this, our milestone sixtieth season, his spirit will spring to life on our stage once more.”

“John Hirsch was fearless. He lived an incredible life and brought all of the pleasure and pain of his experiences to his work,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “This play, which is a tribute to his many contributions to the theatre and a celebration of his extraordinary life, will be a touching and inspiring experience for all.”

The artistic team for this production includes Designer Gillian Gallow, Lighting Designer Itai Erdal, Sound Designer Verne Goode, Dramaturge Bob White and Stunt Coordinator Todd Campbell.

Production support is generously provided by Larry Enkin & Family in memory of Sharon Enkin.

This year, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival celebrates its 60^th season, with 14 productions presented from April 12 to October 28:  Much Ado About Nothing; 42nd Street; The Matchmaker; Henry V; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Pirates of Penzance; A Word or Two; Cymbeline; Wanderlust; Elektra; MacHomer; The Best Brothers; Hirsch; and The War of 1812.

If you’re looking to make some family plans for Canada Day weekend, look no further! We’re hosting a special celebration for you and the kids that includes great shows, loads of activities, chocolates and treats, a pizza party and meet and greets with actors from You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and The Pirates of Penzance.

I’ll be there with my daughter enjoying some Festival fun. Come and celebrate with us on Saturday, Sunday or both days and enjoy these fabulous ticket packages!

Choose from:

Saturday, June 30

• Buy one adult ticket to The Pirates of Penzance and get up to four child tickets to The Pirates of Penzance for the special price of $29 each
• One free Warehouse Tour ticket (to be used on June 30) with every ticket purchased (adult or child)
• One free ticket for the post-show pizza party/cast meet and greet with every ticket purchased (adult or child)
• Meet cast members Sean Arbuckle (our Pirate King), Kyle Blair (our resident Frederic) and Gabrielle Jones (the hilarious Ruth)!
  

OR

Sunday, July 1

• Buy one adult ticket to You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and get up to four child tickets to You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown for the special price of $29 each
• One ticket for each child attending to receive a free Charlie Brown key chain (to be picked up from the Avon Theatre Store)
• One free ticket for the post-show pizza party/cast meet and greet with every ticket purchased (adult or child)
• Who will you and your children get to mingle with at the post-show meet and greet? Spend some time with Snoopy (Stephen Patterson), Ken James Stewart (Charlie Brown), Andrew Broderick (Schroeder), Amy Wallis (Sally) and Kevin Yee (Linus)!

OR

BUY BOTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AND SAVE!

When you buy both the Saturday and Sunday packages, we’ll give you the child tickets to the Sunday performance (up to four for each adult ticket purchased) FREE!

Call our Box Office today at 1.800.567.1600 to book your tickets.*

Make sure to mention that you’d like to book the Canada Day Kids Weekend Package and our Box Office staff will assist you in planning a fun holiday for your family.

What a great way to spend your Canada Day weekend!

OUR FUN-FILLED POST-SHOW PIZZA PARTY WILL INCLUDE:

• Meet and greet with cast members of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown and The Pirates of Penzance
• Pizza provided by Boston Pizza
• Yummy chocolate treats from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Take-away crafts for kids
• Photo booth to capture the family fun
• Costume try-ons
• Balloon animals in the shape of none other than Snoopy
• Lots of smiles!

OTHER ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN AND AROUND STRATFORD ON CANADA DAY WEEKEND

• Downtown Market Square Canada Day Celebrations
• Farmers Market, Stratford Rotary Complex – open 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Slow Food Market, Market Square– open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Stratford Summer Music events

SAVE EVEN MORE ON YOUR VISIT
Click here to download coupons for local family- and kid-friendly restaurants, retailers and accommodation providers.

Share the gift of theatre with your family this Canada Day weekend!

I’ll see you there!

Happiness is…
The Family Experience at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival

“Families today are so busy juggling multiple schedules. BMO is happy to sponsor the Family Experience program, which helps simplify bringing families together to enjoy the magic of live theatre.”

*Not available online.

The two additional shows will be held on the following days:

• Saturday, September 8 at 8 p.m.
• Saturday, September 29 at 8 p.m.

Directed by General Director Antoni Cimolino Cymbeline tells the story of Innogen, the remarkable daughter of King Cymbeline of Britain, who has married against her father’s wishes. Banished by Cymbeline, Innogen’s “poor but worthy” husband, Posthumus, finds refuge in Italy, where the villainous Iachimo tricks him into believing that his new wife has been unfaithful. Flying into a jealous rage, Posthumus orders his servant, Pisanio, to kill Innogen; instead, however, Pisanio helps Innogen undertake a harrowing journey to reunite with her husband and win back his love.

The play features Graham Abbey as Posthumus, Tom McCamus as Iachimo, Cara Ricketts as Innogen and Geraint Wyn Davies as King Cymbeline, with Nigel Bennett as Caius Lucius, Ian Lake as Arviragus, Yanna McIntosh as the Queen, Mike Shara as Cloten, E.B Smith as Guiderius, Brian Tree as Pisanio and John Vickery as Belarius.

Tickets are on sale now.  To order contact the Box Office at 1.800.567.1600 or visit www.stratfordshakespearefestival.com.

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Junior Accountant-Finance department

Reporting to the Comptroller you will be expected to assist with the daily operations within the Finance department. Your responsibilities will include account reconciliations and analysis; management of accounts receivable and collections; preparation of reports for both internal and government departments; assist with preparation for year-end audit, assist with internal control procedures and evaluations; and assist with vacation coverage within the Finance department when required.

As a qualified applicant you will have a post-secondary education in Accounting including intermediate to advanced Excel skills. Clear oral and written communication with a strong attention to detail is expected. Currently pursuing an Accounting designation and experience with Microsoft GP Dynamics would be considered an asset. Familiarity with or an interest in theatre or the arts would be ideal

This is a full time, one year contract with the possibility of an extension.

We recognize that diversity- in our workplace, in our audiences and on our stages- fosters a rich and creative environment. We are actively engaged in building a more diverse workplace and encourage all qualified applicants to apply by June 25, 2012.

Human Resources
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Fax: 519-271-0626
55 Queen Street
Stratford, Ontario N5A 6V2
E-mail: resumes@stratfordshakespearefestival.com
Subject: Junior Accountant

The reading is part of Toronto theatre company Sheep No Wool’s Edward Bond Festival, a festival dedicated to presenting the works of one of Britain’s most important and controversial dramatists in several theatrical venues including the Shaw Festival, Tarragon Theatre and Buddies in Bad Times Theatre.

Bingo tells the imagined story of William Shakespeare and his divided interest between his sensibility as an artist and his self-interest as a property owner protecting his rental income against the needs of the poor. Shakespeare’s daughter Judith and his fellow playwright Ben Jonson are among the characters in this play, which has been called a radical classic.

The reading will be directed by Associate Artistic Director Dean Gabourie and will be read by company members Barbara Barsky, Nigel Bennett, Wayne Best, Keith Dinicol, Xuan Fraser, Luke Humphrey, Claire Lautier, Lucy Peacock, Christopher Prentice, Stephen Russell and Sophia Walker.

Admission to the reading is free; however, attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for collection.

The Edward Bond Festival runs from June 12 to 20. For more information please contact info@sueedworthy.ca or visit Edwardbondfestival.wordpress.com

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We’re excited to announce a new ticketing feature on our Facebook page! Booking your seats has never been so social. Make your Festival visit a Facebook event, see where your friends are sitting in the theatre, book single tickets or arrange a group trip, all from the comfort of home – and without having to collect the money for the tickets.

Here are some key features that you’ll be able to take advantage of when using the Festival’s new Facebook Social Ticketing application!

• Book single tickets without ever navigating away from Facebook;
• Organize a  Facebook event that’s visible to private or public groups;
• Propose multiple shows and dates and get feedback on your event page before making a final decision;
• See where your Facebook friends are sitting in the theatre and join them… or don’t!
• Create a private account so that only you can see where you’re sitting, or create one that allows your Facebook friends to see you.

Here are some benefits of using Stratford Social Ticketing:

• If you’re creating an event for a group, everyone can book individually, so no one has the responsibility of collecting money!
• It’s safe! We use the same security measures on our Facebook page that we do on our website.

Here’s how to get started. (Steps 1-3 are only necessary the first time you use Stratford Social Ticketing!)

1. Sign into your Facebook account, visit the Festival’s Facebook page and click on “BUY TICKETS” to access Stratford Social Ticketing.

2. Once you’ve selected our app, you’ll get to choose who you want to share your Festival-going information with from the drop-down menu (as pictured below). After you’ve done that, click “Go to App.”

3. Select your permissions and click “Allow.”

4.  Now you’re ready to buy tickets! If you’re booking just for yourself, simply click “Buy Tickets” under the production that you’d like to see. But the really exciting thing about this app is that it allows you to create events for you and your friends – so let’s see how that’s done!

To create an event, select “Create Event” under the production you’d like to book with a group of your friends, co-workers, students, family… etc. (You get the picture!)

5. I’ve selected Cymbeline because I am in love with this show! Once you’re on the individual production page you’ll be able to select dates from the calendar that will appear in your “Suggested Show Times.”  Then you’ll be ready to invite friends!
*PLEASE NOTE- only one show time will be allowed to be suggested moving forward. 

5. You can type a personal message in the “Add more info to message” box, and from there you can either select friends from your personal list or make the event public by selecting “Anyone can view or RSVP (public event).”  To select a friend, simply click on their picture so that it’s highlighted. Then you’re ready to click “Create Event.”

6.  You’ll be redirected to the Stratford Social Ticketing homepage, where you’ll see your event under “Upcoming Events.” Click “Event Wall” to view the details and chat with your friends about your trip – or click “Finalize Event” if you’ve gotten everyone’s feedback or if you’ve already decided on a date. If you need to, you can delete your event by selecting – you guessed it! – “Delete Event.”

 7.  Your event wall will look exactly like any other event created in Facebook. You can add a picture, like I did, and discuss dates, times, restaurants, life, love… whatever!

8. Once you’ve settled on a date with your friends, you’ll be able to confirm the date either through the link provided on the page or on the Stratford Social Ticketing homepage. Only group organizers can finalize the date! Select your preference from “Your Original Choices” and it will appear in the box labelled “Your Selected Date and Time.” You can then click “Finalize Event.” If your final date isn’t one of your original choices, simply select “Choose a different date/time” from the bottom left corner and you’ll be able to pick another performance.

9. From there you’ll be redirected to the Stratford Social Ticketing homepage. You can either purchase tickets there by selecting “Purchase Tickets!” under your “Upcoming Events,” or you can order through your event wall. There will be a link there that your friends can click to book their seats, too!

10. The rest of the process is exactly like purchasing tickets through our website, with one really cool exception – you’ll be able to see where your friends are sitting in the theatre once they’ve purchased their tickets! Their Facebook profile picture will appear over their seat, so you can choose to sit beside them. (If you’ve set your account to “Me,” your picture will never be displayed to others.)

After you’ve selected your seats and are ready to check out, we’ll prompt you to sign into your Stratford Shakespeare Festival account. If it’s under the same e-mail address as your Facebook account, you can simply click “Continue,” as long as the right account number appears on the screen for you (take a moment to check!). If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to set up an account before you complete your transaction.

Follow the prompts and complete your checkout, and you’re all set to come to the Festival!

We’re thrilled to be sharing this new app with you! And here’s a treat – get $20 tickets to The Matchmakeron June 9, 15 or 17, 2012,* when you purchase them using Stratford Social Ticketing! On the “Select Your Own Seat” page, enter promotion code 44146 in the box labelled “Have a promo code?” (shown below) and then click “Go”. You’ll be able to select the price type from the drop-down menu.

Take advantage of this cool social ticketing feature and let us know about your experience using our app! If you have any questions, please contact socialmedia@stratfordfestival.ca.

*This promotion is only available through the Stratford Social Ticketing application on our Facebook page. Tickets are non-refundable, not available with any other promotion and are subject to applicable taxes and handling fees. Tickets are only available in A, B and C seating zones. Promotion expires on June 17, 2012.

Opening week has flown by, but not without a lot of hard work and celebration! If you weren’t able to make it out, or haven’t had a chance to crack open a newspaper, here’s a bit of what you missed!

Monday: Opening Night – Much Ado About Nothing
There is always an extra special buzz of excitement in the air on opening night (perhaps it’s the bagpipers ). The pomp and circumstance, the glamour and the sense of anticipation all make your skin tingle. If you weren’t able to be there for the opening of our 60^th season, or if you want to take it in again, here are some highlights from the evening.

Opening Night Red Carpet Live Stream

What were people saying about Much Ado About Nothing
“Ben Carlson and Deborah Hay are brilliant together” – Twitter

“Much Ado is a must see! For brevity’s sake let it suffice to say the star studded cast pays tribute to the vast depth of this great company.” - Facebook

“Tears of laughter, sadness and joy… it’s hard to ask for much more from a night at the theatre.” -Kelly Nestruck, THE GLOBE AND MAIL

Check out some of these beautiful production photos!

Tuesday: 42^nd Street

All that glitters is theatrical gold in 42^nd Street! Here’s what you had to say about this dazzling tap musical!

“We were blown away by 42nd Street!! Awesome production!” – Facebook

“I smiled through the entire show! Cannot recommend #ssf42nd highly enough. Entire cast were amazing!” – Twitter

Wednesday: You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

It’s hard not to smile when you’re watching Charlie Brown. This show is the entire cast’s Stratford début (with the exception of Stephen Patterson) and boy, did they rock it!

Here is the cast of Charlie Brown singing “Beethoven Day” (#SQUEE, seriously!)

“@stratfest I laughed so hard during #ssfCharlie I cried. Tears. Pouring down my face. Brilliantly done. Also: best Snoopy ever. Thanks!” - Twitter

“LOVED Charlie Brown last night I usually just see the Shakespearean productions but this was such a treat . I am going to recommend it to everyone!” – Facebook

Thursday: Cymbeline

The rarely staged Cymbeline opened to rave reviews from critics and fans alike. This beautiful late Shakespearean romance stole my heart from the first line – don’t miss seeing it at the Tom Patterson Theatre!

View more production photos from Cymbeline here!

This is what you thought of Cymbeline

“#ssfCymbeline a moving, funny, beautifully staged production. The actors are inspiring, reminds me why I want to be one. Get your tickets!” – Twitter

“Just left the theatre after seeing Cymbeline. WOW! Loved it!” – Facebook

Friday: The Pirates of Penzance

The beloved Gilbert and Sullivan made a fabulous, splashy reappearance on Friday night at the Avon Theatre. I couldn’t wait to see this personal favourite of mine on opening night! If you’re into fabulous music, comedy, steampunk design and magnificent casting (and really, who isn’t) you’re going to loooove this show!

Here’s a bit of what you can expect to see on stage:

More of your reviews from Pirates!
“I saw [The] Pirates of Penzance today and it was PHENOMENAL!!! It was the first play I’ve ever seen and my mum and I were fortunate enough to get seats 2nd row from the front. I’ve heard amazing things about the Festival but what I experienced today went WELLLLLL above and beyond my expectations. I will absolutely go back and bring all my friends and family with me!!” – Facebook

“#SSFPIRATES of PENZANCE is a GLORIOUS thing! See it now so you’ll have time to see it again & again b/c it’s extraordinary!” – Twitter

Saturday: The Matchmaker

On Saturday afternoon we launched our beautiful 60^th season book, Stratford Behind the Scenes. If you haven’t had a chance to peruse it yet, you need to! Stratford Behind the Scenes explores the process of building a season, from choosing the playbill to set construction to performance. Filled with interviews, observations and breathtaking full-colour photography, this new coffee-table book will lead readers on a fascinating journey into corners of the Festival seldom seen by members of the public. Keep watching for the interactive digital version of this book filled with exclusive video footage from behind the scenes!

From the launch we were off to our last opening (at least for this month!), The Matchmaker. It has been a long time since I’ve heard an audience laugh like they did during this performance. I had read the patron reviews, so I knew The Matchmaker would be amazing, but you really have to see it to understand how good it is!

Here’s a sneak peek at this show! (Seana McKenna and Tom McCamus together on stage – perfection!)

More patron reviews from The Matchmaker!
“The Matchmaker is one of the best productions we’ve seen at the Festival, and we’ve see a lot! ” – Facebook

“I saw “The Matchmaker” on Friday night and it really should be on everyone’s must-see list this summer. The whole thing just sparkles with wit and humour!” – Facebook

“@stratfest LOVED #ssfMatchmaker was hilarious, definitely taking more friends & family 2 see it and it is an excuse to go again!!” – Twitter

I’m not sure whether to cheer or cry – perhaps a bit of both! Opening week is always a highlight for me, so it’s sad to see it end, but it’s also exciting to have the season in full swing!

Do you have any favourite opening week moments? Let us know in the comment box below!

“Here in Stratford, Maggie Smith holds a special place in our hearts,” said Artistic Director Des McAnuff. “One of our Festival’s founding principles was that we should be a home for artists of international stature as well as for our own Canadian stars, a principle spectacularly embodied in the four seasons Dame Maggie spent with us between 1976 and 1980. Her performances on our stages made an immense contribution to our artistic legacy and are still treasured in the memories of all who experienced them.

“As brilliant in her many celebrated screen roles as in her classical work on stage, Dame Maggie is known around the globe as one of the truly legendary artists of our age. It gives me tremendous pleasure to have this opportunity to express to her our admiration and our gratitude for the extraordinary body of work she has bestowed not only upon us but upon the world at large.

“Having spoken to her recently, I know that Dame Maggie is really looking forward to coming back to Canada, where she enjoyed so much substantial success.”

In her four seasons at Stratford, Dame Maggie gave some of the most memorable performances in the Festival’s history, including Cleopatra in Antony and Cleopatra, Rosalind in As You Like It, Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing, Mistress Overdone in Measure for Measure, Queen Elizabeth in Richard III, Titania/Hippolyta in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Lady Macbeth.

Her non-Shakespeare roles at Stratford were equally noteworthy: Masha in Three Sisters, The Actress in The Guardsman, Judith Bliss in Hay Fever, Amanda Prynne in Private Lives, Irina Arkadina in The Seagull and Mrs. Millamant in The Way of the World, for which she won her second Variety Club Best Actress Award. Her performance in the title role of the world première of Edna O’Brien’s Virginia was one of her most lauded. The production went on to the Theatre Royal Haymarket, winning Dame Maggie her first Olivier nomination and her second Evening Standard Drama Award for Best Actress.

“Maggie Smith joined the Festival company under Artistic Director Robin Phillips,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “She had become a bright star in Britain at an early age, enjoying enormous success in the West End and at the National Theatre under Laurence Olivier, before rising to international fame with her Oscar-winning performance in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. It was a coup for Robin to have lured her to Canada for the 1976 season and audiences flocked to see her. She won a second Oscar in 1978, but decided to continue her collaboration with Robin, giving the Festival four years at what we thought then was the height of her career. In fact, she has remained at those heights in the years since.

“It is our honour to celebrate Maggie Smith’s legacy at Stratford, remembering her witty portrayals of the heroines of Shakespeare, Congreve and Coward as well as her heartfelt dramatic roles in a range of Shakespearean and other classics. We look forward to creating a tribute worthy of her contributions to our stages.”

Dame Maggie won the 1969 Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the title role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. She won a second Oscar – as well as a Golden Globe and a BAFTA award – in 1978 for her supporting role in Neil Simon’s California Suite. Her performances in Othello, Travels with My Aunt, A Room with a View and Gosford Park also garnered Oscar nominations.

Dame Maggie’s star has shone continuously throughout her career, with each new generation finding appreciation for her brilliant characterizations – from her early career at London’s National Theatre, where in 1963 she played Desdemona opposite Laurence Olivier’s Othello, to her mid-career success in film and on stage, to her recent turns as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter films and Violet, the Dowager Countess, in Downton Abbey.

Among her dozens of awards are a Tony and an Olivier, two Oscars, seven BAFTAs, two Emmys, two Golden Globes, a SAG award and five Evening Standard Theatre Awards. She was awarded the Hamburg Shakespeare Prize in 1991, is a fellow of the British Film Institute, was awarded a Silver BAFTA in 1993, is an Hon. DLitt of Cambridge University, and St. Andrews, and is a patron of the Jane Austen Society.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival is extremely honoured that she has agreed to accept its Legacy Award and looks forward to her return to Canada where the Festival’s finest performers will celebrate her magnificent career.

The Legacy Award Gala committee is co-chaired by Barry Avrich, Beth Kronfeld and Florence Minz. To order tables and tickets or to receive information, please contact Rachel Smith-Spencer at 519.271.4040 ext. 2402.

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“The 60^th season is representative of Stratford in all its glory,” says Mr. McAnuff, who is directing Henry V and Christopher Plummer’s A Word or Two, both of which open later in the season. “Embodying Stratford’s hallmark marriage of tradition and innovation, the Cplaybill ranges from the very roots of drama to some of the finest playwrights working in Canada today. Shakespearean comedy, history and romance are complemented by a hilarious contemporary pastiche of Shakespearean tragedy, while the season’s varied musical theatre repertoire acknowledges our own era’s great contribution to the western dramatic tradition. Meanwhile, the strength of our acting company is being showcased not only in Stratford but also on Broadway, with the Tony-nominated Jesus Christ Superstar.”

“As we celebrate our Festival’s 60^th season, the glorious heritage of our past provides us with a clear signpost to the way ahead,” says General Director Antoni Cimolino. “Our pioneering artists and those who supported them sought to create in Stratford nothing less than the finest classical theatre in the world. Thanks to their vision and determination, the adventure that began in 1953 with two productions in a tent is now North America’s premier repertory theatre, featuring 14 productions in five venues. That same spirit drives us today as we explore the classics of the past and give birth to the classics of the future.”

Much Ado About Nothing is directed by Christopher Newton, who was a member of the Festival’s acting company from 1966 to 1968. It features Ben Carlson as Benedick and Deborah Hay as Beatrice.

Five other productions will open during the week: 42nd Street, directed by Gary Griffin and featuring Sean Arbuckle as Julian Marsh, Kyle Blair as Billy Lawlor, Cynthia Dale as Dorothy Brock, and Jennifer Rider-Shaw as Peggy Sawyer; You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, directed by Donna Feore, featuring Stephen Patterson as Snoopy, Erica Peck as Lucy and Ken James Stewart as Charlie Brown; Cymbeline, directed by Antoni Cimolino, featuring Graham Abbey as Posthumus, Tom McCamus as Iachimo, Cara Ricketts as Innogen, and Geraint Wyn Davies as Cymbeline; The Pirates of Penzance, directed by Ethan McSweeny, featuring Sean Arbuckle as the Pirate King, Kyle Blair as Frederic, C. David Johnson as the Major General, and Amy Wallis as Mabel Stanley; and The Matchmaker, directed by Chris Abraham, featuring Tom McCamus as Horace Vandergelder and Seana McKenna as Dolly Levi.

The 60^th season will feature a number of special events, including Christopher Plummer’s one-man show A Word or Two, which will run from July 25 to August 26. Most Rare Visions: 60 Years of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival is an exhibition of Festival artifacts, including rare footage of our pioneers, at a new space kitty-corner to the Avon Theatre, at 104 Downie Street. A symposium, Interpreting Shakespeare Across Settings and Media, featuring Colm Feore, Norman Lloyd, Dr. Katherine Lowe and the Festival’s Director of Archives, Dr. Francesca Marini, will be held on June 2. A dramatic reading of Edward Bond’s Bingo, about an aging William Shakespeare, will be held on June 15, with the playwright on hand for a Q&A with the audience. Lucy Peacock will hold a number of cabarets – Late Night with Lucy – in the new Studio Annex, in July and August, featuring music and conversation. The Celebrated Writers Series returns with Stephen Marche, author of How Shakespeare Changed Everything; Richard McCoy, author of Faith in Shakespeare; Michael Ondaatje, author of The Cat’s Table; and Margaret Atwood, author of In Other Worlds. Master voice and Shakespeare teacher Patsy Rodenberg will present three special events from July 18 to 22, to mark 60 years of the Festival’s extensive actor training activities. The Festival will launch a special 60^th season book on June 2, Stratford: Behind the Scenes, which will available through the Theatre Store. These special events are all in addition to the Festival’s usual enrichment activities.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival’s 2012 season runs until October 28, featuring Much Ado About Nothing; 42^nd Street; The Matchmaker; Henry V; You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown; The Pirates of Penzance; A Word or Two; Cymbeline; Wanderlust; Elektra; MacHomer; The Best Brothers; Hirsch and The War of 1812.

Opening Week Itinerary

Sunday, May 27
Garden Party
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Festival Theatre lobby and gardens

Monday, May 28
Gala Opening of Much Ado About Nothing
Festival Theatre, 55 Queen Street, Stratford
6:30 p.m. Pipe Band parades to front of theatre and performs
7:00 p.m. Red Carpet arrivals
7:30 p.m. Performance of Much Ado About Nothing begins
10:10 p.m. Performance concludes

Tuesday, May 29
11:30 a.m. Book Launch – Festival Lobby
The Adventures of Adrian and Tiddlywinks by the late John Sullivan Hayes, former Producer of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Opening of 42nd Street
Festival Theatre
8:00 p.m. Performance begins
10:20 p.m. Performance concludes

Wednesday, May 30
Opening of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
8 p.m. Avon Theatre
9:55 p.m. Performance concludes

Thursday, May 31
Opening of Cymbeline
8 p.m. Tom Patterson Theatre
11 p.m. Performance concludes

Friday, June 1
Opening of The Pirates of Penzance
8 p.m. Avon Theatre
10:35 p.m. Performance concludes

Saturday, June 2
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Symposium, Studio Theatre (please contact Andrea Smitko to reserve tickets)
1:00 to 1:45 p.m. Book Launch – Stratford: Behind the Scenes. Rehearsal Hall 3, Studio Theatre.
Opening of The Matchmaker
8 p.m. Festival Theatre
10:40 p.m. Performance concludes

-30-

“Saw The Matchmaker on Saturday night. It was hilarious!!!! What an enjoyable show & much deserving of the standing ovation. Thank you ”

“The Matchmaker was fantastic!! A must see for sure.”

“One laugh after another. Excellent!”

“Hilarious!!”

“Brilliantly funny – what a tonic to watch!”

“I went to see The Matchmaker and loved..loved..loved it!!! Still having giggle fits and humming the song.”

“Run, don’t wait to see #ssfMatchmaker @stratfest! It’s a HIT not to be missed!”

“LOVED #ssfMatchmaker was hilarious, definitely taking more friends & family 2 see it and it is an excuse to go again!!”

With reviews like this, tickets aren’t going to last long! Get yours while you still can!

View more photos from The Matchmaker here!

From today until Monday, May 28, at 11:59 p.m., buy one regular adult ticket to The Matchmaker and get your second for $1!* This limited-time offer is only available online for the following performances:

• June 1, 2012, 8:00 p.m.
• June 7, 2012, 8:00 p.m.
• June 9, 2012, 8:00 p.m.
• June 15, 2012, 8:00 p.m.

Remember to log into our website with promotion code 43854!

We’ll see you at the theatre!

Psssst, we’re giving away a pair of tickets to The Matchmaker on the last Wednesday of every month! Find out how you could win at our online “dating site” www.dolly-levi.com. (You might even find your perfect match!)

*Offer is only valid online and excludes A+ seating. $1 ticket available with the purchase of one regular adult ticket until May, 28, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. Offer is not available in conjunction with any other offer, including TiXX, MMP/SSP, Play On and Family Experience. Subject to applicable taxes and handling fees. Offer may expire without notice.