For its 18th year, Bard in the Quad is back to bring Shakespeare to the Oregon State University community outdoors, but this time in an unconventional space compared to previous years.
Due to the majority of the Memorial Union Quad—the production’s usual stage—being closed for reseeding, the production of “Much Ado About Nothing” was moved to the front of the Strand Agriculture Hall, using its natural stage-like set up to its advantage.
The new set up allowed for more interaction between members of the audience and cast creating a feeling of full immersion.
This is also the first year the program was given student incidental fee funding to allow all students free admittance with their OSU ID.
“This is such a great entry into live theater especially if a person feels a little intimidated by Shakespeare. I would argue that Shakespeare is for everybody, truly,” said Director Elizabeth Helman.
The play opens as the sun sets behind characters Hero and Beatrice, played by Libby Brennan and Maddy Braun, singing an enchanting song accompanied by Hero’s father Leonato portrayed by Matt Holland.
The entire production takes place in Leonato’s garden, and actors enter from the left, right, rear, front and even from the audience.
“It’s definitely more demanding on your body, but it’s also really cool to figure out how to play in a space like that and how to be physically expressive in an open space outside. There aren’t four walls that are confining us to the space we use, so we use the stairs and the grass and audience. It becomes an interactive experience,” Braun said.
Love, quarrel and lying are main themes in the romantic comedy that kept the audience both laughing and engaged in the story.
“I hope that people just get to enjoy themselves. I think sometimes we’re caught up in all of the terrible things happening around us that we forget that it’s okay to laugh at the silly things and laugh together,” said Abrianna Aydee, who portrayed both characters Dogberry and Margaret.
Bard in the Quad is open to all students and community members to both watch and be a part of.
“Bard is an open community experience. It’s meant for the community by the community so I hope that when people see it they go ‘oh I want to do that,’” Aydee said.
“The atmosphere here is a little casual. You pack a picnic. Picnics are highly encouraged. Sit here on the lawn, hang out with your friends, and then you get to watch a show. It’s a good casual way to enjoy theater and a reminder that theater is for everybody,” Helman said.
Bard in the Quad will hold its last productions Aug. 10 to 13 on the east end of the MU Quad in front of the Strand Agricultural Hall.
