As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted across the state, many local theaters and performing arts companies have moved back indoors for regular performances.
But for those who feel like they’ve spent too much time indoors over the past few years, several local companies still offer the chance to get out and experience live performances in the open air.
Whether under the stars or in the sun, the companies are showcasing everything from Shakespeare classics to 48-hour theatre festivals, from a new rendition of “Anne of Green Gables” to family-friendly fare inspired by “Power Rangers”. The events below are subject to change, so it’s best to call ahead and double-check the website to confirm any plans.
“Beauty and the Beast” and “Bend, Anne of Green Gables the Musical” presented by Kitsap Forest Theatre
Nestled in the middle of a 460-acre Rhododendron Reserve near Bremerton, the Kitsap Forest Theatre offers two summer performances in its amphitheater surrounded by fir trees. Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” tells the classic story of Belle and the prince who must learn to love and be loved. Beginning in 2020, “Detours” is a new family musical based on the novel “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Orphaned Anne Shirley is mistakenly adopted by siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, and the musical follows as Anne’s wit, joy and imagination transform the lives of those around her.
“Beauty and the Beast” will air May 29-June 19, and “Bend, Anne of Green Gables the Musical” will air July 30-August. 21; 3000 Seabeck Hwy., Bremerton; $18 (bring your own cushion or folding seat, or rent one for cash from the theater); 206-521-6001; Forest Theatre Network.
“History Cafe: Walking the Road to AIDS Remembrance” at the Museum of History and Industry
“History Café,” a collaboration between MOHAI and HistoryLink, offers an opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact of the AIDS epidemic on Seattle. Jason Plourde and Rosette Royale will walk the AIDS Memorial Pathway on Capitol Hill. Use art and storytelling to create spaces of remembrance and reflection, and share stories about how the pandemic has shaped communities. Space is limited to 25 participants.
June 15; free registration; details about participation will be provided via email after registration; Mohai Net.
“Superhero Rangers Go Go Go Supreme!!!” and “World’s Fastest Drama Festival” hosted by The 14/48 Projects
14/48 Projects heads to parks around the Seattle area for a family-friendly show and return of the festival of the same name. Inspired by shows like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Warriors, Superhero Rangers tells the story of a group of friends and superheroes stripped of their powers and having to learn how to navigate the world without them. The “World’s Fastest Theatre Festival” will feature 14 scripts written, cast, directed, rehearsed, scored, designed and premiered in 48 hours.
“Superhero Rangers Go Go Go Supreme!!!” taking place over the weekend of July, “World’s Fastest Theater Festival” will be held August 19-20 at select Seattle parks, specific park locations to be announced ; free; the1448projects.org.
Wooden O work by the Seattle Shakespeare Company
Seattle Shakespeare Company’s Wood O’s Fairy Tale Summer will take place at park grounds in the area, including the romantic mayhem of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and the magical journey in “Cymbeline.”
July 7-August 7; various locations; Liberty; 206-733-8222; Seattle Shakespeare Website.
GreenStage’s Shakespeare Bard in Parks and Backyards
For Season 34’s free Shakespeare Park, GreenStage’s main stage productions will be the tragicomedy “Pericles” and the historical drama “Henry V.” The Backyard Bard will present a pared-down Shakespeare play featuring the comedy “Much Ado About Nothing” and the tragedy “Macbeth.”
July 8-August 13; various locations; Liberty; 206-748-1552; greenstage.org.
Vachan Drama Festival
Following last year’s festival featuring works such as Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” and “Woody Guthrie’s American Song,” the second edition of the festival will feature five yet-to-be-announced performances in three locations over two weekends. .
July 21-31; various locations; $15-30; 206-769-6029; vashonrepertorytheatre.org.
“The Play’s The Thing” by Burien Actors Theatre
Burien Actors Theatre will take “The Play’s The Thing” to parks in South King County. After composer Albert overhears his fiancée Ilona sharing her feelings with another man, playwright Sando sets out to rewrite reality to save Albert from heartbreak, and him in the process ‘s new program. The line between acting and reality blurs, and Sando tries to make it seem like it’s really just a conversation in the drama.
July 29-August 21; various locations; free; battheatre.org.
