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For the full Shakespearience...
Welcome to The PLAY’s the Thing, a lively mix of hands-on activities happening before and between performances. Whether you’re here to laugh, learn, or just try something new, this is your invitation to play like a groundling, think like a scholar, and move like a player. Facilitated by Ms. Jenni Glueckstein, veteran theatre educator and the BIGGEST Shakespeare nerd you will ever meet. Jenni brings boundless energy, deep knowledge, and a joyful spirit of discovery to every session. |
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1:00 PM – Open Game Play
Come early and dive into a world of Shakespeare-inspired fun! Our open game play area is stocked with a delightful mix of period-style games—easy to learn, fun to play, and perfect for all ages. Whether you're a curious kid, a competitive grown-up, or just in it for the laughs, there's something here for you.
We’re especially thrilled to debut The Bard Game—our giant, colorful 'board' game adventure! Laid out on canvas right on the grass, players roll oversized dice and travel through Shakespeare’s London, answering trivia questions, dodging plague outbreaks, and racing toward the Globe Theatre. It’s part quiz, part quest, and all kinds of fun.
Volunteers will be nearby to help explain the rules and cheer you on—no experience required, just a sense of play!
Come early and dive into a world of Shakespeare-inspired fun! Our open game play area is stocked with a delightful mix of period-style games—easy to learn, fun to play, and perfect for all ages. Whether you're a curious kid, a competitive grown-up, or just in it for the laughs, there's something here for you.
We’re especially thrilled to debut The Bard Game—our giant, colorful 'board' game adventure! Laid out on canvas right on the grass, players roll oversized dice and travel through Shakespeare’s London, answering trivia questions, dodging plague outbreaks, and racing toward the Globe Theatre. It’s part quiz, part quest, and all kinds of fun.
Volunteers will be nearby to help explain the rules and cheer you on—no experience required, just a sense of play!
3:15 PM – Dive In or Just Chillax
Stick around after Much Ado About Nothing (or stop by just for this!) and before Early Music Now and enjoy something totally rad. Our 3:15 sessions offer a rotating lineup of playful, hands-on experiences that bring Shakespeare, theatre, and Renaissance life to, well... life!
Led by guest artists and theatre experts, these sessions are designed for all levels of curiosity. Want to jump in and give it a try? Great. Prefer to hang back and enjoy from your lawn chair? Also great. Whether you’re in the mood to learn something new or just soak it all in, there’s a spot for you.
No registration required, and no need to move your seat—just follow your curiosity. Each weekend’s activity is repeated on both Saturday and Sunday, so you’ve got two chances to catch the fun.
Stick around after Much Ado About Nothing (or stop by just for this!) and before Early Music Now and enjoy something totally rad. Our 3:15 sessions offer a rotating lineup of playful, hands-on experiences that bring Shakespeare, theatre, and Renaissance life to, well... life!
Led by guest artists and theatre experts, these sessions are designed for all levels of curiosity. Want to jump in and give it a try? Great. Prefer to hang back and enjoy from your lawn chair? Also great. Whether you’re in the mood to learn something new or just soak it all in, there’s a spot for you.
No registration required, and no need to move your seat—just follow your curiosity. Each weekend’s activity is repeated on both Saturday and Sunday, so you’ve got two chances to catch the fun.
Now Playing...
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🎭 Pretty in Pink
July 12 – Wisconsin Lutheran College July 13 – Washington Park Renaissance-Era Costumes for Stage and Street Led by Jenni Glueckstein Ever wondered how Renaissance folks pulled off those fabulous ruffs, doublets, and gowns? Try on history with Jenni as she explores costume design for street wear vs stage—and how it all connects to what real people wore in Shakespeare’s day. Come take a look, try something on, or just enjoy the runway vibes from your lawn chair. 🪴Weird Science
July 26 – Mitchell Park July 27 – Grant Park What a Way to Make a Living - A Day in the Life of a Renaissance Housewife Led by Norma Mortimer Think running a household is tough today? Join Norma for a peek into the daily life of a Renaissance housewife—gardening, cooking, brewing, and maybe even a little gossip. You'll laugh, learn, and gain a new appreciation for everyday survival in Shakespeare’s world. You might even go home with a sprig of fresh herbs or two—just like a good neighbor would’ve shared in the old days. 🏴☠️ Time Bandits
August 9 – Kern Park August 10 – Lincoln Park Grace O’Malley’s Pirate School: Swordplay and Sea Shanties Led by Amanda Ellis Ahoy, landlubbers! Join the legendary Irish pirate queen Grace O’Malley (as played by Amanda Ellis) for a swashbuckling adventure on stage. Learn the basics of swordplay, sing along with rousing sea shanties, and discover what it takes to rule the waves—or at least the lawn. Whether you join the crew or simply enjoy the spectacle from your chair, all are welcome. As you wish. |
✈️ Top Gun
July 19 – Humboldt Park July 20 – Sherman Park Stage Combat Demonstration Led by Nicole Magnusson Get ready for controlled chaos! Stage combat artist Nicole Magnusson shows how Shakespeare's fight scenes are choreographed for maximum drama and zero bruising. From swordplay to slapstick, you’ll see the moves, learn the secrets, and maybe even get into the Danger Zone. 💬 Say Anything
August 2 – Lake Park August 3 – Forest Home Cemetery & Arboretum What’s the Deal with the First Folio? Led by Jenni Glueckstein What's so special about Shakespeare's First Folio? Jenni breaks it down with insight and humor in this engaging session for theatre lovers and curious minds alike. You’ll discover how punctuation, spelling, and typesetting shaped the Bard we know today—and why the language really isn’t as intimidating as it seems. Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespeare buff or someone who’s always wondered what the fuss is about, this session proves that understanding Shakespeare can be surprisingly simple (and seriously fun). This workshop best enjoyed if you arrive at the beginning and stay until the end. 🎬 Coming Attractions
August 16 – Ferris Bueller's Day Off (Rain Date Only) August 17 – Neverending Story Wisconsin Avenue Park Stay tuned for our final session—it’ll be worth the wait! |
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