Hey there, theater lovers! Have you heard about the Delacorte Theater’s grand reopening? 🎭 After nearly two years of renovations, this iconic venue in Central Park is finally ready to host Shakespeare in the Park again, and they’re kicking things off with a star-studded production of Twelfth Night! Are you as excited as I am? Let’s dive into what’s happening! 💬
The Magic of the Delacorte Theater
First off, let’s talk about the Delacorte Theater itself. Nestled in the lush greenery of Central Park, it’s not just a place to watch performances; it’s an experience! Imagine enjoying Shakespeare while surrounded by nature—sounds dreamy, right? But wait—there’s a twist. The cast has to share the stage with the occasional woodland critter. 🦊 Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who’s taken the stage there multiple times, shares a funny insight: “I don’t want to compete for backstage space with raccoons!” Can you blame him? 😂
After an extensive $80 million makeover, the Delacorte is back and better than ever! With over 1,800 new seats and an animal-proof barrier (thank goodness!), it’s ready to welcome audiences without those wildlife interruptions. Plus, they’re kicking off the season with a fabulous production of Twelfth Night, running from August 7 through September 14. Who’s ready for some Shakespearean shenanigans? 🙋♀️
Star Power: The Cast of Twelfth Night
Now, let’s talk about the cast! It’s a lineup that’s sure to bring in the crowds—think Lupita Nyong’o, Sandra Oh, Peter Dinklage, and of course, Jesse Tyler Ferguson. But here’s the real kicker: Lupita will be sharing the stage with her brother, Junior Nyong’o, who plays Sebastian. Talk about family goals! 💖
Lupita reminisces about her childhood obsession with Twelfth Night, and it’s heartwarming to see her take on a role she’s loved since she was a kid. “It’s ballsy, and it’s over the top, and it’s fun,” she says. And I can’t wait to see her bring that energy to the stage! Who else is excited to see this dynamic duo perform together? 🙌
A Fresh Take on a Classic
Director Saheem Ali is putting his spin on Twelfth Night, infusing it with contemporary relevance while honoring the original text. This version promises to resonate with today’s audience, especially as he emphasizes the darker elements often overlooked in productions. “It’s raucous,” Ali says, adding that his rendition will take the audience on a ride through laughter and heartfelt moments. Sounds intriguing, right? 🎢
The story kicks off with a shipwreck that separates twins Viola and Sebastian, leading to a series of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. It’s a classic Shakespearean plot that’s ripe for modern interpretation. Ali plans to highlight the immigrant experience, drawing parallels to both Lupita and Junior’s Kenyan roots. How cool is that? 🌍
Plus, we can expect some of the lines to be delivered in Swahili during the reunion scene. Talk about cultural representation on stage! Lupita and Junior’s chemistry is bound to shine through, making this production not just a performance, but a celebration of family and heritage.
What to Expect at the Delacorte
As we gear up for Twelfth Night, let’s remember what makes Shakespeare in the Park so special. The atmosphere is electric, with free tickets creating an inclusive experience for everyone. 🎉 “The journey to the Delacorte is part of the adventure,” Lupita says, capturing the essence of community that fills the air. Imagine picnics, music, and a buzzing crowd waiting for the curtain to rise!
This year’s production promises to be a whirlwind of fun, laughs, and maybe a few unexpected moments (we’re looking at you, raccoons! 😂). Dinklage, who’s new to the Delacorte stage, recalls the quirky experiences he’s had attending shows, from rain to surprise owl appearances. It’s all part of the charm, right?
With a runtime of only 100 minutes and no intermission, this version of Twelfth Night is designed to keep the audience engaged while delivering all the wit and wisdom of Shakespeare. Ali has carefully curated the script to focus on what resonates today, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Are you ready for a Shakespearean adventure? 🌟
So, mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this unique experience at the Delacorte Theater. Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone. Let’s celebrate the arts and the magic of live theater together! #ShakespeareInThePark #TwelfthNight