Nashville Shakespeare Festival Celebrates Shakespeare's Birthday, 4/22

Calling all would-be Romeos and Juliets to Centennial Park Sunday, April 22, for the Nashville Shakespeare Festival's celebration of William Shakespeare's 448th birthday. For the third year in a row, Denice Hicks, the festival's executive artistic director, will stage the "Biggest Balcony Scene Ever" at Centennial Park. The party starts at 3 p.m. at the park's bandshell.

"Last time we had more than 80 Romeos and Juliets, and we would love for even greater participation this year," Hicks said. Scripts will be available to all who show up. Romeos will take their place on the ground, while Juliets will stand on the balcony (bandshell).

Pizza and birthday cupcakes will be provided on a first come, first serve basis. Following the balcony scene, attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic fare and stay for free family entertainment from various local performers. In keeping with the Elizabethan tradition, all dogs are welcome.

Following the performances, judging will begin for the annual Shakespeare's Birthday costume contest. Fun prizes will be given in the following categories: best star-crossed couple, best dog costume and most creative costume (adult and children). One of the celebrity guest judges this year will be Nashville Paw Magazine's very own Briley!

"What better place than Centennial Park bandshell, where Shakespeare in the Park happens each summer, to celebrate the Bard's birthday?" Hicks said.

The 2012 Shakespeare in the Park production will be Much Ado About Nothing, directed by Executive Artistic Director Denice Hicks. The show runs from Aug. 16 through Sept. 16.

For more information, visit www.nashvilleshakes.org or call 615-255-2273.