3691 Sarah’s Lane, Ellicott City, Maryland 21043

WHEN: June 6 – July 13, 2008

Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 5 pm

Both shows performed on June 28; Friday, July 4 will be at 5pm

There will be a Thursday, July 10 show of The Comedy of Errors at 8pm.

HOW: Tickets and dinners can be purchased online through our website www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com, by phone at 866-811-4111 or

prior to the performance at the box office. Groups of 10 or more, please call 410.313.8874.

PRICES: Adults $25, Seniors $22, Student under 22 $15

and for the fourth year in a row, Children 18 and under are Free, with a paying adult

MAGIC & MISCHIEF THIS SUMMER

IN OUR OWN BACKYARD WITH YOUR FRIENDS AT CSC

(Ellicott City, Maryland) The award-winning Chesapeake Shakespeare Company-in-the-Ruins returns to its summer home for a sparkling new outdoor season just down the road and in a venue like no other. This year, CSC presents The Comedy of Errors, the mischievous comedy of mistaken identity, and The Tempest, Shakespeare’s magical romance, performed among the picturesque ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, Ellicott City, Maryland.

The Comedy of Errors and The Tempest will be produced in repertory, with one cast performing both shows alternately. On Saturday, June 28th, audiences will have the opportunity to see both shows performed back-to-back in our traditional doubleheader beginning at 5pm.

CSC’s important tradition of free kids also continues this summer. “Kids seeing Shakespeare for free is an integral part of CSC’s identity in the community. Families look to CSC as a terrific opportunity to introduce their kids to Shakespeare and theatre in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We’ve had kids coming to see our performances for five summers. Now, both they and their parents treasure this summer event,” notes Managing Director Lesley Malin.

CSC Artistic Director Ian Gallanar directs The Comedy of Errors as a celebration of Shakespeare’s great zany comedy. “I've been looking forward to directing The Comedy of Errors for a long time. We hear all the time about the poetic genius of Shakespeare. Sometimes we forget that he is one of the greatest comic writers in history. Our production will be a festival of comedy, perfect for all ages. Shakespeare threw in every comic convention he knew about. We'll be following his lead by creating an energetic, entertaining production of what is, perhaps, his funniest play.”

CSC Associate Director, Patrick Kilpatrick, who was seen as Henry V last summer, takes the helm directing The Tempest. “It’s a show filled with love, magic, fear, revenge, forgiveness, compassion, cruelty, humor and one heck of a shipwreck. The ruins of the Patapsco Female Institute is an absolutely perfect venue in which to stage this amazing tale of wonder,” comments Kilpatrick.

In addition to the performances, CSC also provides pre-show entertainment which will feature musicians, jugglers and variety acts that will perform for picnickers who arrive early to enjoy the sights and sounds of the historic park. Patrons will also have the option of having dinner waiting for them at the theatre. Dinners include utensils, a side, a dessert and a choice of beverage. Options include: a Southwest Flank Steak Wrap, Fruited Chicken Salad, a Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap and Greek Vegetarian Delight. Pre-ordered dinners are $18 and can be ordered through our website, www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com.

This summer will also include special events and activities. Fridays are billed as Fun Formal Fridays, where couples can rent a private candlelit table. Sundays are Family Friendly and include many activities especially designed for children. Father’s Day will be highlighted with a performance of The Comedy of Errors, and all fathers will be given complimentary admission when attending with their children. And there will be a special 5pm Fourth of July performance of The Comedy of Errors to start the holiday weekend with a bang.

CSC will continue its new program, CSC: The Extended Version by hosting this special event for each show. The evening will begin at 7pm with the artist’s commentary. For The Comedy of Errors, on Saturday, June 7, Dr. Nathan Thomas will be leading a reading and discussion of the history of comedy. CSC’s Education Director, Dr. Kevin Costa will take us through the ride that is The Tempest, on Saturday, June 14. Both discussions will be followed by the 8pm performance. CSC: The Extended Version will conclude with the extras; a gathering after the show for a meet and greet with the actors.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com, by calling 866.811.4111 or prior to the performance at the box office. Groups of 10 or more, please call 410.313.8874. For general information, call the CSC offices at 410.313.8874. (05/14/08)

Pictures are available under the Media link at www.chesapeakeshakespeare.com.