Printer Friendly Version - Theater Along the River Returns with ‘Edward III’

Edward III, the subject of this June’s Theater Along the River Shakespearean play, was King of England from 1327 until 1377. He transformed England into one of the leading military powers in Europe. His 50 year reign is the second longest of medieval England. Photo courtesy of Connecticut River Museum

On Saturday, June 18 the Connecticut River Museum’s Theater Along the River kicks off with the Flock Theatre production of William Shakespeare’s Edward III.

The Raigne of King Edward the Third (typically abbreviated as Edward III) centers on the life of the eponymous English monarch as he faces the threat of a rebellious Scotland while simultaneously laying claim to the French throne, starting the Hundred Years War in the process. Originally printed anonymously in 1596, the author’s identity has been a subject of some debate, though scholars now generally agree that the play is the work of William Shakespeare collaborating with fellow playwright Thomas Kyd.

According to director Derron Wood, “We are pleased to return for a third year to the Connecticut River Museum. It offers a spellbinding backdrop for outdoor theater and allows us to reach a new audience.”

The Connecticut River Museum’s executive director, Christopher Dobbs, said that “Flock Theatre is a master of Shakespeare. We feel fortunate to offer this level of entertainment at the museum and hope that the audience enjoys the production and its backdrop, the river.” Dobbs said the museum is able to host this event and keep the ticket prices reasonable through the “generosity of lead sponsor the Essex Wellness Center.”

The museum’s grounds will open at 6 p.m. for picnickers to layout blankets and chairs. There will be a special prize awarded to the “best” picnic arrangement.

Tickets are $18 for the general public and $10 for children (12 and under) and $12 for Connecticut River Museum members. A cash bar serving beer and wine will be available for theatergoers. No carry-in alcohol is permitted. Tickets may be bought at www.ctrivermuseum.org or at the door starting at 6 p.m. the night of the performance. Curtain opens at 7 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, June 19.

A second evening of Theater Along the River will be held on Friday, Aug. 5. This time Flock Theatre will be performing Shakespeare’s popular comedy Taming of the Shrew.

For more information on the programs, contact the Connecticut River Museum at 860-767-8269 or visit ctrivermuseum.org.

The Connecticut River Museum is located at 67 Main Street, Essex and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.