From October 11 to 20, the “Shakespeare in the Park” event returns for its third season at Gucheng Park in Huangpu District, Shanghai. This vibrant arts market embodies the philosophy of bringing drama outdoors and making classic literature accessible to the public. It’s also a key event celebrating the fifth anniversary of Shanghai’s People’s City initiative.
What can audiences expect when Shakespeare strolls into the park? On the evening of October 13, “Olivia” released the grip of her “Duke,” connecting with audience members to loud applause. This was part of a stilt-walking interactive performance by the Wulong Troupe, featuring characters from “Twelfth Night” resembling ancient Greek bards who mingled through the bustling crowd.
“I believe instead of waiting for audiences to buy tickets and enter the theater, artists should step outside, out of the confines of traditional stages, and engage directly with the people,” expressed Sun Rongbo, the artistic director of the Wulong Troupe.
During this ten-day theatrical carnival, “Shakespeare in the Park” merges the classics of Shakespeare with the natural surroundings of Gucheng Park, transforming it into a “super amusement park” brimming with theatrical culture. This offers residents a unique urban getaway without the need for extensive travel.
In contrast to traditional theaters’ closed environments, “Shakespeare in the Park” emphasizes an outdoor experience that is open, diverse, and inclusive. The event features eight thematic areas, including “Artist’s Park Letter,” “Hamlet’s Dilemma Stage,” “Romantic to the Extreme: Romeo and Juliet,” “Unforgettable Twelfth Night,” “The Venetian Boat,” and “A Midsummer Night’s Forest Dream.” Each zone is meticulously crafted around core elements from Shakespeare’s works and popular IPs.
In addition to the themed installations, there are also performances including dramas, puppet shows, light and shadow acrobatics, bubble displays, and street bands. “Shakespeare in the Park” has quickly become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, expanding outdoor activities and camping experiences while creating refreshing viewing and performance spaces for regular theatergoers.
