“Theater is important to people's lives. If you don't believe this, then you might as well give up.” - Joseph Papp, Shakespeare in the Park

That is the reason for ‘Shakespeare by the Lakes – FREE, public performances of Shakespeare’s plays, during Valentine's Day Week annually, in various parks around Canberra. A blanket, a picnic – a free-for-all community event as the sun goes down behind the trees. BYO Sparkling wine.

Shakespeare by the Lakes makes theatre freely accessible to Canberrans of all walks of life, in the outdoors, in summer, in their parks. It will be an accessible cultural event engaging the Tuggeranong and Canberra City neighbourhoods, as well as the greater ACT area.

By performing for free and out of doors in multiple locations, Shakespeare by the Lakes will reach audiences who might not be able to afford a theatre ticket, who might be less likely to travel to a theatre or may be uncomfortable in a more traditional theatre setting.

Shakespeare by the Lakes will use, promote and celebrate the talents of local Canberra artists in all aspects of production and excite contemporary audiences with the timeless themes of great theatre.