Transport yourself back in time to late 16th century England under the rule of Queen Elizabeth I. A time when society was much more colorful and elaborate than previous periods. When theatrical festivals offered people an opportunity to escape the hardships of their daily lives and engage with their friends and neighbors in a fun and positive environment. Spectators came from afar to witness displays of comedy, drama and music. The popularity of English actor turned playwright, William Shakespeare, was on the rise.
And the English language would never be the same.
Shakespeare coined numerous phrases we still use today. Were you aware that "A wild goose chase" first appeared in “Romeo and Juliet”? Did you know “All that glitters is not gold” is from “The Merchant of Venice”? Or that “I will wear my heart upon my sleeve” is from “Othello”?
William Shakespeare’s influence on society and language is immeasurable.
The Shakespeare McKinney festival provides residents and businesses with an opportunity to show their hearts of gold (“Henry V”) by supporting the local arts community, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts. This immersive experience is an incredible celebration of culture, creativity and community. Shakespeare McKinney is a nonprofit organization focused on collaborating with various performing and visual artists and arts organizations in a positive, supportive and inclusive environment where they can receive well-deserved recognition and reward.
Experience Shakespeare's works and the artistry of days of old. Your worries will melt into thin air (“The Tempest”) as you enter the festival grounds at Adriatica Village in McKinney.
Shakespeare’s work comes full circle (“King Lear”) through presentations, adaptations and modernized renditions of his repertoire performed on the Main Stage. The hard work and undeniable talent of local theatre companies, including Out of Line Concepts, Poor Yorick Productions, McKinney’s Young Actors Guild, and The Gorilla Theatre Players, will leave audiences in awe, and their talents will knock you dead as a doornail (“Henry VI”). These lesser-known yet passion-packed companies are sure to impress.
There is no need to wait with bated breath (“The Merchant of Venice”) because the Shakespeare McKinney SideStage is jam-packed with classic entertainment. Music, dance and theatre covering multiple eras will delight audiences throughout the duration of the festival.
The Peninsula Stage is reserved for student scholarship competitions. Students ranging from 11-18 years of age will display their talents in three categories: Shakespearean Monologue, Classic Scene Work and Improvisation.
Knock knock! Who's there? (“Macbeth”) You'll encounter exceptional street performers and visual artists lining the streets of the festival, sharing their gifts with attendees.
The vendors will certainly be eaten out of house and home (“Henry IV, Part II”) by festival goers enjoying the variety of food truck options. Additionally, attendees will be able to peruse the vendor market in search of gifts and keepsakes.
The youngest art lovers can spend all day in the gigantic Kids’ Zone. Kiddos ages 3-12 can challenge their skills on Ninja Nation's obstacle course, laugh themselves into stitches (“Twelfth Night”) on the fun inflatables, create original artwork in the craft tent, or fall in love with the animals in the petting zoo after getting into character with one of the fantastic face painters.
Last year’s festival goers have not slept one wink (“Cymbeline”) in anticipation of this year’s epic event! Why anyone would choose not to join in on the fun is Greek to me (“Julius Caesar”).
Shakespeare McKinney 2023 will take place on March 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Adriatica Village located at 6625 Mediterranean Drive in McKinney.
For tickets or more information visit ShakespeareMcKinney.org. Shakespeare McKinney is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Community and corporate sponsorship opportunities are available.
