This is a rare year: I've already seen two live Shakespeare performances, and within a month of each other. Both are plays I'm more than familiar with, though they're both not really my favorites. I had a good time each time, though they were pretty different experiences.
When you say 'Shakespeare in the Park' to a New Yorker, the first thing that may spring to mind is the post-Memorial Day performances at Delacorte theater, beautifully situated near Belvedere Castle and one of my favorite haunts, the Shakespeare Garden. And it is an evening I recommend 100%, once you're in. There are lotteries and lines to endure before you have that (free) ticket in your hand. I'm grateful that both times I've seen a play here, someone else got a ticket for me. Once you have a seat, which are basic stadium seats in terms of comfort, all you have to worry about is if the weather will hold up. It did for my group!
We were there for Othello, which is a Shakespeare play I don't necessarily care for, mainly because it's all tragic misunderstandings. It was well done, though, and I was surprised to see, for both performances I'm speaking of here, that they kept to Shakespearean period costume. Usually the productions dress for a different era, like the 1940s. I'm okay with that, but it's been ages since I've seen a Bard-era costume choice.
What made this night fun for me was also the raccoon that stole the show; occasionally these guys find their way to the stage and streak across to thunderous applause. I think they do it on purpose. At one point some ducks flew overhead. You won't forget entirely that you're in Central Park.
Soon after Othello, I was able to see the other Shakespeare in the park - which was a production of Romeo and Juliet, by the New York Classical Theater. It's sometimes called 'Shakespeare on the Run', because everyone meets up at a designated spot in the park, and then follows the actors for a change of scenery at another spot. It's fun because you can meet up early and have a little picnic (though one you can easily carry is recommendable), and if you're not crazy about your view, it will change in a scene or two. Also, the actors tend to interact with the audience: the 'balcony scene' had Juliet further away and Romeo standing right behind me. As R&J is not my favorite Shakespeare play, I feel it needs to be shaken up a bit to be palatable. There's also the matter of it being a small company, and most of the actors play at least two roles, so the quick changes are pretty fun. The only negative I can see is that getting up and down from a spot on the grass is not as easy for your joints if you're over 25.
Like siblings, it's hard to pick a favorite. Both are easy on the wallet - in the NYCT production, you can contribute afterwards, but if your budget is tight, you're still allowed in either way. Be warned that if you're in the mood for a selfie, you'll have to refrain at Delacorte, as staff will FIND YOU. Photography is also frowned on by the NYCT. Just live in the moment!
Definitely try at least one of these experiences if you're in New York in the summertime. NYCT moves out to different venues further down the calendar (like Battery Park, which starts in Castle Clinton), but I try for Central Park when possible. And bring the kids! They always seem to have the best time. Just make sure the bathroom needs are attended to prior to the show, and this goes for both productions.
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