Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale was first performed in 1611 at the Globe Theatre in London. This summer, more than 400 years later, you can watch it be performed right here in Corvallis, at the Memorial Union Quad.

The play runs for two weeks from July 30 through August 2 and August 6 through 9 at 7:30 p.m. Seating is on the grass and begins at 6:30 p.m. and picnics are welcome and encouraged. Tickets are $17 general, $15 for youth and seniors, and free to OSU students with a valid student ID. 

“The Winter’s Tale is one of Shakespeare’s most epic plays with a sprawling story that spans two continents and takes place over a sixteen-year time period. It’s essentially a fairytale with a little bit of everything— a jealous king, family drama, comedy, music, magic, and even a bear!” said Elizabeth Helman, director of this year’s play, in an email.

Hank Smith, a member of this year’s cast, highlighted some of the unique features of the production. He explained that there is a young prince at the beginning of the play who will be played by the 8-year-old daughter of the department’s costumer. 

“It’s been a lot of fun watching her just realize how much she likes acting. She’s so good,” Smith said. 

When asked why people should come to this year’s production, Smith said,

“(Helman) is a great director; she will make  sure it’s something worth coming to see.”