Behind the scenes at Shakespeare in the Grove
Tidewater Community College’s Shakespeare in the Grove is considered a community gem by many.
In the 26 years the show has been running, attending has become a tradition for families from all over the region. Ed Palmer, a veteran actor, says that the tradition is not only special for families but actors as well. Over his 17 years with the production, he has seen the same families in the audience each year and has had the opportunity to see children grow up as they attend the event and learn to love theater.
Shakespeare in the Grove is also a fan favorite due to the unique appeal of outdoor theater. In an outdoor setting, the audience can be comfortable and relax while enjoying the play. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs as well as their favorite picnic dinner. This event is free and family members of all ages are sure to enjoy it.
The Grove production is presented by TCC Theatre and the Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission and marks the start of summer.
This year’s production of Shakespeare in the Grove is “Tartuffe” by the French playwright, Moliere. Tartuffe is a captivating story about fraud and betrayal. The classic plays that TCC Theater performs have something in them for everyone. Palmer explains, “These plays are timeless because they are about the human condition. Everyone can relate to the themes of love and loss.”
Shakespeare in the Grove is as special to the actors as it is to the audience. Many of the actors return year after year and create a close-knit community as they prepare to, once again, bring live theatre to Chesapeake. Veteran actor, Autumn Ibanez, says that she “continues to come back to Shakespeare in the Grove because the actors are so supportive, and it makes for a great learning experience.”
Assistant Director, Michelle Jenkins, agrees that being involved in the production is an amazing opportunity to learn from experts. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, the cast and crew work side-by-side with theater professionals. Many of whom have been working on Shakespeare in the Grove for over a decade.
When asked what advice these veteran actors would give to people interested in joining the production for the first time, all three said, “Do it.” They encourage anyone with a passion for theater to overcome the intimidation and get involved. Based on the support system found in the cast and crew, new actors will find a welcoming environment.
Join TCC Theatre for this year’s production on June 21-25 at 8 p.m. on TCC’s Chesapeake Campus, 1428 Cedar Road. For more information, reach out to Matthew Gorris at Mgorris@tcc.edu. Gorris is TCC Theatre’s faculty lead and this year’s Grove director.