Visitors from all walks of life have enjoyed the works of the Bard in one of Calgary’s most anticipated and popular outdoor summer festivals, where Shakespeare’s timeless plays are brought to life for the public with modern, family-friendly twists throughout July and August.

 

As the play opens, the celebrated soldier Othello has secretly married Desdemona, the daughter of a powerful Venetian senator. But when he is accused of stealing her, Othello explains himself and is given a new commission by the Senate: to lead the Venetian forces in a battle for Cyprus, against the Turks. Othello lands victorious in Cyprus, where he is joined by Desdemona. Their peace is shattered by Iago, Othello’s ensign, who manipulates Othello into believing that his wife is unfaithful and in love with Cassio - Othello's trusted lieutenant. Possessed by jealousy, Othello murders his wife. This play of love and revenge is one of the Bard’s most popular and produced tragedies.

Much Ado About Nothing
Much Ado About Nothing's five acts follow two pairs of lovers. While the romance between Claudio and Hero forms the main plot, the action is in fact mostly concerned with their counterparts Beatrice and Benedick whose sharp tongued wit provides the energy and drive for this hilarious battle of the sexes. The play was most likely first performed in 1598 or 1599. Its style shares many features of the modern romantic comedy and it remains one of Shakespeare's most enduringly popular works.