"Much Ado About Nothing" by Gray Mallard Theater Company at Sociable Cider Werks

My favorite new #TCTheater summer tradition is Gray Mallard Theater Company's "Shakespeare in the Pub." Not quite in the pub, they perform in the parking lot outside of Sociable Cider Werks in Northeast Minneapolis, with a variety of ciders, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages available in their tap room, and a permanent food truck. But best of all, it's Shakespeare performed outdoors the way it was meant to be - fun, playful, professional, and free. Part of their mission is to remove the economic barrier to theater, they don't even have reservations, so you just show up and watch the show (but if you're able, consider making a donation to support their work and mission). For their 4th annual show (my 2nd year attending), they've chosen the original rom-com Much Ado About Nothing. They perform Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7pm through August 3, and there's really nothing better than sitting outside on a gorgeous summer evening, sipping a beverage, and watching some great Shakespeare.

"Romeo and Juliet" by Gray Mallard Theater Company at Sociable Cider Werks

You've heard of Shakespeare in the Park? Now we have Shakespeare in the Pub! Specifically, the parking lot of Sociable Cider Werks in Northeast Minneapolis. Now in their third year, I finally made it out to see Gray Mallard Theater Company, and it was a delight! There's really nothing better about Minnesota summer than sitting outside on a not-too-hot summer night, enjoying some Shakespeare, food, and local cider. (Well, maybe lakes are better - Shakespeare at the Lake?!) They said they've done a history and a comedy, so now it's time for a tragedy. Why not the most famous tragedy, the story of Juliet and her Romeo. By far the Shakespeare play I've seen the most often (more than a dozen times), but one that's always relevant and entertaining and frustratingly tragic (I always hope that somehow the Friar's message will get through to Romeo, but it never does). With an engaging cast, simple design, and the gorgeous night sky as backdrop, this Romeo and Juliet is your new must-do summer #TCTheater experience. Unfortunately I'm getting to this late (because summer is busy) and there are only two shows left. But if you're looking for something to do this weekend, see it before it closes on July 28!