Menlo Players Guild presents Shakespeare under the stars Menlo Players Guild presents Shakespeare under the stars (June 01, 2005)

By Renee Batti

Almanac News Editor

A king, two gentlemen and a clever rascal will take center stage at the Menlo Players Guild's free outdoor theater festival, which begins this weekend in Menlo Park.

The Mid-Peninsula Shakespeare Festival throws in a little Moliere this year, opening this Saturday, June 4, with the 17th century playwright's wicked comedy, "That Rascal Scapin."

The play will be performed in repertory with two by Shakespeare: "King Lear," with audience favorite Bruce De Les Dernier in the title role; and "The Two Gentlemen of Verona."

As in past years, the plays are being staged outdoors at Mid-Peninsula High School, 1340 Willow Road, in Menlo Park. All performances begin at 8 p.m.

"Scapin" will be performed both Saturday and Sunday of the opening weekend and two other days during the festival, which ends Sunday, June 26.

It's the story of a witty, fast-talking scoundrel who helps bring lovers together while duping their fathers out of their fortunes. Amy Himes directs.

The second weekend begins on Friday, June 10, with "Two Gentlemen" in a staging set in 1946. It is a comedy about love, loyalty and friendship. Bruce De Les Dernier directs.

"King Lear," one of Shakespeare's best-loved tragedies, opens Saturday, June 18. Mr. De Les Dernier, who plays Lear, also co-directs with Amy Himes.

The festival is presented by the 65-year-old Menlo Players Guild, in partnership with the Festival Theatre Ensemble, of which Mr. De Les Dernier is artistic director. MPG member Leslie Newport Wright is producer.

Although admission to the performances is free, MPG welcomes donations. Free beverages and snacks will be available courtesy of Safeway and Starbucks.

Organizers encourage playgoers to bring a blanket -- it can get chilly as night falls.
INFORMATION

The specific schedule for the festival can be found at menloplayersguild.org.

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