Free Shakespeare in the Park in Pleasanton July 24, 2010

July 24, 25, 31, August 1, 7, 8, all 7:30 - 9:45pm

On Saturday, July 24 City of Pleasanton Civic Arts will begin its second decade hosting San Francisco Shakespeare Festival's Free Shakespeare in the Park with Two Gentlemen of Verona. The show will span three weekends with performances Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 pm through August 8. Special Family Day activities for children of all ages will take place on Saturday, July 31, at 6:00 pm.

"During its first 10 years in Pleasanton, Free Shakespeare in the Park entertained audiences totaling more than 50,000 people," says Civic Arts Manager Andy Jorgensen. "We mark the beginning of the second decade in a new location and invite everyone to bring lawn chairs and picnics to the recently-dedicated Bernal Community Park where we will continue this fine Pleasanton tradition." Bernal Community Park is located off Valley Ave, south of Bernal Ave. in Pleasanton, CA.

Two Gentlemen of Verona is a comedy about youthful love, directed by Resident Director Kenneth Kelleher who returns for his 8th season. His past productions include The Comedy of Errors, Pericles, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Tempest, and Much Ado About Nothing.

In Two Gentlemen of Verona, Proteus falls in love with his best friend Valentine's new girlfriend, Silvia, and ends his relationship with the faithful Julia. To win him back, Julia dresses as a boy. With three outrageous outlaws, a misbehaving dog and upbeat 1960s tunes, Kelleher has fashioned a comedic experience, appropriate for all age groups.

Fans will see a number of familiar cast members this year. Brian Herndon (Launce) was seen as Dromio of Syracuse in last summer's comic hit The Comedy of Errors as well as the 2005 production of Much Ado about Nothing and the 2006's The Tempest. Emily Jordan, who plays the role of Silvia, appeared in 2007's A Midsummer Night's Dream (Titania) and 2008's Pericles (Thaisa and Diana).

Admission is free. For more information, contact the Department of Parks & Community Services at (925) 931-5340.

Official Website: http://www.sfshakes.org/park/index.html