Chesapeake Shakespeare

What’s not to like? Shakespeare, live, outdoor theater (complete with passing trains, planes, helicopters, and fife and drum corps that the actors take in stride during the performance), warm Maryland summer evening, and exuberant actors giving their all. We saw «As You Like It,» which is one of Shakespeare’s comedies. I loved it. The company did a fantastic job making the play a delight. (As with all Shakespeare’s play, it helps to read the Folger’s Library edition before going. That way you’ll understand more of Shakespeare’s word play and more of his obscure references) There was great live music by the actors before the show and at intermission which was very entertaining. Bug spray might be useful after the sun goes down and a flashlight to see your way back down the hill to the parking lot would be a good idea, too. The folding chairs we sat on weren’t the most comfortable but were OK. The whole experience is highly recommended.

For a night of theater under the stars, head to the Chesapeake Shakespeare Co. at the Patapsco Female Institute (PFI) in Ellicott City. The Chesapeake Shakespeare Co. uses the former PFI as it’s summer «home» and stage/​backdrop for the performance. The location is really interesting as it is perched on a hill and the building has been partially restored. Take a walk around to admire the location.
The performance we attended was Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The theatre company rotates this show with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, so yes, they do Shakespeare. The performance was excellent and the actors were engaging and entertaining. The actors projected well even over the random noise of planes and trains.
They have a shuttle van from the parking lot to drop you off at the PFI. As you enter and get your tickets, staff members greet you and orient you to the experience (complimentary bug spray, try on costumes, write something on a wall or play badminton). Find a seat on one of many plastic folding chairs. Next time, I will bring a comfy beach or camping chair since the folding chairs are only comfortable for 30 minutes. You can even bring a picnic dinner with drinks — we saw people noshing on cheese, crackers, salads, wine and beer.