Shakespeare in High Park

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s largest public park, you’ll find a magical place. A place where friends and families gather to feast on picnics and take in the fresh, summer air as they watch a group of talented actors bring Shakespeare’s plays to life. For some, Canadian Stage’s Shakespeare in High Park, is an annual tradition. For me, it was a first-time experience…

With a mini-picnic in hand, my friends and I headed to the opening night of Titus Andronicus. Having never been to a performance at the park, we were a bit worried that we’d get lost, but there were plenty of volunteers and signs to guide us along the way (side note: I love the signs). 

When we arrived around 7:30 pm, the amphitheatre was filled with families, couples and groups of friends. Some were seated on the tiered hill while others relaxed on their blankets in front of the stage. Fortunately, we were given cushions; I’m no longer a spring chicken and definitely benefitted from the padding under my tush!

The 90 min performance was action-packed and engaging; Beau Dixon (who portrays the villainous Aaron) even encouraged the audience to participate...

I thought the director, Keira Loughran, did a great job with her symbolic take on the play; however, there are some intense scenes that are not appropriate for kids. There’s cannibalism, murder, mutilation, rape – you get the idea. It is, after all, a Shakespearian tragedy…

The 12-person cast put on a great performance, but in my opinion Beau Dixon and Shauna Black were the standouts. Oh yes, there are some risqué scenes as well…

But have no fear if you’ve got little ones; luckily, the pay-what-you-can summer series is a double-bill! The other play, As You Like It, is a Shakespearean comedy that is perfectly suitable for all. The performances run on alternate nights throughout the summer (from now until August 31) so just make sure you check the schedule before heading there. If you haven’t experienced Shakespeare in High Park, I highly recommend checking it out. It’s a great way to spend a summer night with friends or family!

Some tips and info before you go…

• Pack a picnic, take a blanket or two (it gets chilly) and don’t forget your bug spray!! You’re in the middle of High Park so you’ll be surrounded by all kinds of nature – we even saw a few bats during the performance!
• Titus Andronicus runs on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays and As You Like It runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
• Entrance is free for kids 14 and under and pay-what-you-can for adults at the gate ($20 suggested minimum donation). 
• You can also reserve your ticket online for $25 so you don’t have to show up at 6 pm to grab a spot (it’s a popular summertime activity). Oh, and this way you’re guaranteed entrance to the amphitheatre, even on a busy night. And you get a cushion!