If you were one of the thousands to attend a performance from Saskatoon's hottest outdoor theatre ticket then you know why it is so appealing to visitors and residents alike. For those that have yet to experience one of Saskatoon's premier summer festivals, Tourism Saskatoon has decided to take Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's merry band of thespians on the road for a feature performance at the GoMedia Canada Marketplace held at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, Ontario (August 22-26^th, 2010).

Since first raising its tents in 1985, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has grown to become one of Saskatoon's most celebrated summer attractions. Todd Brandt, CEO of Tourism Saskatoon adds, "Saskatoon's festivals like Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan as well as our attractions and events are as varied as they are exciting. We are very pleased with this opportunity to showcase the world-class talent we have in our city." Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan will take the spotlight at a Tourism Saskatoon sponsored breakfast for marketplace delegates on Tuesday, August 24^th. Guests will be transported back to the days of yore to enjoy fun, food and frolic. Mark von Eschen, Artistic Director of Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan believes that delegates should be thoroughly amused, "Shakespeare was the greatest entertainer of the Elizabethan era - he gave the audience what they wanted: passion, violence, sex, and silliness - all the things that people still want today and that we love to deliver!"

GoMedia is the Canadian Tourism Commission's annual marketplace where tourism industry representatives like Tourism Saskatoon can rub elbows with nationally and internationally renowned travel media members based on one-to-one speed-dating style appointments.

Tourism Saskatoon is a membership based non-profit organization. They provide visitor, marketing and membership services for the city. Some of their business services include convention planning, bid preparation, group tours, media assistance, familiarization tours and accommodation information on Saskatoon and Saskatchewan.

For more information:

Trevor Broughton
Marketing and Public Relations
Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan
(306) 653-2300
shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Todd Brandt
President & CEO
Tourism Saskatoon
(306) 931-7574
tbrandt@tourismsaskatoon.com

Backgrounder:

Countdown to CTC's GoMedia Canada Marketplace 2010 by CTC News Staff 28 July 2010

A Sneak-Peak At This Season's Shows!

Come join us for our media call on Tuesday July 6^th. The cast will perform a short scene from each of this season's plays, and there will be several opportunities to capture video and take photographs. There will also be an opportunity for interviews within a limited time frame, and we will try to accommodate everyone as best we can.

Where: Shakespeare Site (Next to the Mendel Art Gallery)

Date: July 06, 2010

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

***Scenes for both plays to be announced***

To arrange interviews please contact Trevor Broughton, Marketing and Public Relations, at 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Thank you and we hope to see you all there!!!!

Media, supporters, and patrons of the Festival are invited to join us at the festival site for a special announcement! There will be an opportunity for interviews and photographs following the announcement, and we will try to accommodate everyone as best we can.

Where: Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival Site (The big white tents along the riverbank between the Mendel Art Gallery and the University Bridge)

Date: Tuesday June 29, 2010

Time: 9:30am

Thank you and we hope to see you all there!!!!

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the brilliant cast of this year's plays: The Merchant of Venice and The Merry Wives of Windsor.

The Merchant of Venice – Presented by SaskTel

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan welcomes back Henry Woolf to lead the cast of this magnificent play, taking on the challenging role of Shylock, the rich Jewish financier who lends money to his Christian rival, Antonio (the merchant, played by Shakespeare veteran Ralph Blankenagel). Antonio is borrowing on behalf of his good friend Bassanio (played by Matt Burgess), who plans to travel to Belmont to win the hand of rich heiress Portia (played by Angela Christie, last seen on the stage in 2004), but needs money to woo her in style. Shylock sees an opportunity to exact revenge on Antonio for past persecution, and sets the stakes of the loan high – should Antonio default on the loan, Shylock will extract a pound of his flesh. Meanwhile, Antonio's good friend Lorenzo (played by recent U of S graduate Ed Mendez) manages to catch the eye of Shylocks daughter Jessica (Jamie Lee Shebelski) and convinces her to escape with him and convert to Christianity - further fueling Shylocks contempt. Emerging artist Cassidy Thomson joins the cast for her debut performance as Nerissa, Portia's lady-in-waiting and love interest of Gratiano, friend to Bassanio played by Leon Willey (also performing for his first time on the Shakespeare stage). Theatre Ecstasis co-founder Josh Beaudry lends his comedic talents to play Launcelot Gobbo, one of Shakespeare's best clowns.

The Merry Wives of Windsor – Presented by PotashCorp

Robert Benz (Nick Bottom in last year's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream) returns for his fourth season under the big festival tent to play Sir John Falstaff, a boisterous scoundrel who has traveled to Windsor with a plan to swindle two wealthy women for their husband's money. Angela Christie tackles the role of Mistress Page, alongside Catherine Harrison (last seen in Shakespeare's "Titus" Project) as Mistress Ford - the two targets of Falstaff's plan. The women prove to be smarter than Falstaff, and quickly turn his plans against him – much to their amusement. Meanwhile, Mistress Page is engaged in a battle with her husband (Matt Burgess) over who should wed their daughter Anne, played by Jamie Lee Shebelski. Mistress Page favours Caius (Josh Beaudry), Master Page favours Slender (Ed Mendez), and Anne favours Master Fenton (played by newcomer Philip Stonhouse). Ralph Blankenagel plays the neurotic husband of Mistress Ford who fears that his wife will succumb to the charms of Falstaff, and Cassidy Thomson takes on the role of Mistress Quickly, the town's local busybody.

With Production Stage Management by Laura Kennedy (assisted by Jennifer Rathie-Wright) and an amazing design team, the 2010 season of Faire Faces and False Hearts will dazzle and entertain. Imaginative Mark von Eschen provides the Artistic Direction; with amazing sets by Carla Orosz, lighting by Stephen Wade, and remarkable costumes by Beverley Kobelsky.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan opens its gates in less than three weeks, with performances running in repertory from July 7 to August 22. Tickets are on sale now through the on-site box office (652-9100) or online (www.ticketmaster.ca). For more info visit: shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's on-site box office is officially opening tomorrow at noon!

This season, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan brings two fantastic plays to the banks of the South Saskatchewan River. The Merchant of Venice – presented by SaskTel – opens in exactly one month (July 10th), with a special preview performance scheduled for July 8th. Playing in repertory will be The Merry Wives of Windsor, a hilarious farce proudly presented by PotashCorp – opening on July 9th with a special preview performance on July 7th. Also featured are special guest performances by DancEgypt, Dance Saskatchewan Inc, and the Upisasik Theatre Company, along with a variety of festive activities planned throughout the season. Performances run for seven weeks in the big white tents, coming to a close on August 22nd.

Tickets for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's evening performances start at $30 for adults, $24 for students and seniors, and $18 for youths. Matinees start at $24 for adults, $19 for students and seniors, and $10 for youths. Special discounts are offered during Shakespeare's Procrastinators' Week (July 12th to 18th). Group rates are also available.

Shakespeare's box office is located at the main entrance to the festival site, nestled between the University Bridge and the Mendel Art Gallery. For the month of June, the box office will be open between 12:00pm and 6:00pm Monday to Saturday, with a short break between 2:30pm and 3:00pm. To order tickets, stop by the site to speak with the box office staff in-person, or call 652-9100.

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

With the big opening night only one month away, the cast and crew of Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan are busy at work transforming the Festival's lush riverside den into Saskatoon's hottest summer stage. The tents are now up, and come July 7th, the site will be swimming with activity as enthusiastic theatergoers visit from across the province to be dazzled and entertained by two of the bard's favorites. With the box office set to open later this week, the Festival is pleased to announce the presenting sponsors of this year's exciting mainstage shows.

Opening first, on July 9th (with a special preview performance on July 7th) is The Merry Wives of Windsor, proudly presented by PotashCorp. Featuring the hilarious antics of the incomparable rogue Sir John Falstaff, The Merry Wives of Windsor is a fast-paced, rollicking farce that is certain to have everyone, young and old alike, roaring with laughter. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is thrilled to partner with PotashCorp this season; over the past several years PotashCorp has quickly grown to become one of the Festival's strongest supporters. Last year, PotashCorp helped launch the Festival's Family Matinee Discount Program. This year, PotashCorp has expanded its support even further, making it one of the bard's two largest cash sponsors.

Playing in repertory with The Merry Wives of Windsor is The Merchant of Venice, proudly presented by SaskTel. This fantastic play opens on July 10th (with the preview on July 8th) and is one of Shakespeare's best. Mixing unique elements of comedy and drama along with some of Shakespeare's most memorable characters, The Merchant of Venice is a brilliant exploration of prejudice and usury that everyone will enjoy. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to continue its long-standing partnership with SaskTel this season to present this magnificent play. Over the course of the Festival's 26-year history, SaskTel has not only been one of its most enduring supporters, but also one of the most generous. For the past several seasons, SaskTel has been the Festival's largest cash sponsor.

It is with great pleasure and appreciation that Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan welcomes each of these generous corporations to its tents this summer. Each year, over 50 sponsors help to bring the Festival together with donated services and financial support. Without their incredible kindness, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan would not be able to perform Shakespeare's classic stories.

The Festival is looking forward to an exciting year and invites everyone to take part in the festivities. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster. For more information, visit: www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to welcome DancEgypt, Dance Saskatchewan, and the Upisasik Theatre Company to its stage this summer, fleshing out the Festival's Monday schedule with exciting guest entertainment throughout July and August.

DancEgypt Presents: The Circle of the Dance
July 12, 19, & 26 (8:00pm)

Relive the history of Egyptian Dance from its origins 3000 years ago when it was an integral part of culture and ritual, to its migration through Europe and North America where it became known as a form of entertainment called Belly Dance, and finally back to its glory as a cultural dance where thousands of people learn, practice, teach and perform it. Join us in a Middle Eastern Dance spectacular as we meet our ancestors and move closer to closing the Circle of the dance. Adult admission is $25; students and seniors $20; and children get in for $12. Also take advantage of Shakespeare's procrastinator week savings, and save $5 when purchasing tickets for the July 12th performance.

Dance Saskatchewan Presents: Dance on the Saskatchewan
August 9 & 16 (8:00pm)

Dance Saskatchewan Presents Dance on the Saskatchewan. A collection of performance works featuring a variety of dance genres from all across Saskatchewan. Join us for DSI's first presentation of dance on the main stage of the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival tent located on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River in the heart of Saskatoon. Pre-Show entertainment will commence at 6:30 p.m. with the main show starting at 8 p.m. Don't miss this celebration of Saskatchewan's growing, diverse and vibrant dance community. Adult admission is $20; children and seniors get in for $15.

Upisasik Theatre Company Presents: The Batoche Musical
July 26 (1:00pm)

Finally! The Batoche Musical returns to Saskatoon! Ernestine and Alphonse Pilon were the first couple to marry after the Battle of Batoche. Now they're celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary and you're invited! Join them as their story comes to life through song, dance and laughter. You'll see how the young Alphonse and Ernestine met and how the events of 1885 changed their lives. The Batoche Musical is more than a celebration of Alphonse and Ernestine. It is a celebration of metis culture. As part of their extended family, you are invited to join in the fun! Tickets: $22.50

The 2010 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival runs from July 7th to August 22nd on its beautiful riverbank site next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Featured this year is The Merry Wives of Windsor, a rollicking farce featuring the antics of the incomparable rogue Sir John Falstaff, and The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare's brilliant exploration of prejudice and usury. To take advantage of this year's special Procrastinators' Week savings, visit any Ticketmaster outlet and order your tickets now! For more information, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

The clouds have parted and the sun is finally shining – just in time for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan to raise its big white tent along the river's edge. Talk about sure signs of summer!

Assuming that the weather continues to cooperate, Shakespeare's big festival tent is set to go up tomorrow morning (June 2nd) at 10:00am on the Festival's beautiful riverbank site nestled between the University Bridge and the Mendel Art Gallery. Anyone curious to see how it all happens is welcome to visit the site!

Beginning on July 7th, Shakespeare's tents will play host to over 12,000 enthusiastic theatergoers attending from across the province to experience The Merchant of Venice – a marvellous play featuring Henry Woolf as Shylock – and the hilarious antics of the incomparable rogue, Sir John Falstaff (played by Robert Benz), in The Merry Wives of Windsor. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.

The 2010 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival runs from July 7th to August 22nd on its beautiful riverbank site next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Featured this year is The Merry Wives of Windsor, a rollicking farce featuring the antics of the incomparable rogue Sir John Falstaff, and The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare's brilliant exploration of prejudice and usury. To take advantage of this year's special Procrastinators' Week savings, visit any Ticketmaster outlet and order your tickets now! For more information, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the latest artists to join the cast of this year's season of Faire Faces and False Hearts, signed with gracious financial support from the RBC Foundation through its marvelous new initiative, the Emerging Artists Program.

Designed to foster the growth of young performing artists in our community, the RBC Foundation's Emerging Artists Program is an important new partnership that has created a fantastic opportunity for recent (or soon to be) drama graduates in our province to gain valuable experience on the Shakespeare stage. By helping to defray the cost of employment, the RBC Foundation has allowed Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan to hire three up-and-coming actors to take on challenging roles in this year's magnificent plays. The program falls in line with one of the Festival's core guiding principles – to employ Saskatchewan artists – and will expand on a long-standing tradition to hire at least one apprentice actor each summer.

Auditions were held in the spring, and this year's talented participants have now been cast. Saskatoon's own Cassidy Thomson will be joining the crew to take on the roles of "Mistress Quickly" in The Merry Wives of Windsor and "Nerissa" in The Merchant of Venice. Cassidy recently earned her B.F.A. in Acting at the University of Saskatchewan, and spent a special term abroad at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (in the UK) that focused solely on classical acting including Shakespeare and other Jacobean works. Later this year, she is starting her own acting company, called Thigh High Theatre, with a fellow U of S graduate.

Taking on the role of "Fenton" in The Merry Wives of Windsor, and "Solanio" in The Merchant of Venice, is Philip Stonhouse. Philip has lived in Saskatoon for most of his life and has long had a passion for theatre. As a teenager, he earned a special feature in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix for his role in a high school production of It's a Beautiful Life. He also spent several years performing at the Off-Broadway Dinner Theatre. After a brief term at the U of S, Philip was accepted into a special Theatre and Drama Studies Program at the University of Toronto at Mississauga (UTM) where he has performed in a number of shows, including a special joint production of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, and The Taming of the Tamer (John Fletcher). Phillip has been training at UMT for three years.

Last, but not least, is Ed Mendez, who will be playing "Lorenzo" in The Merchant of Venice and "Slender" in The Merry Wives of Windsor. Ed is no stranger to the Shakespeare stage. In 2008 (having just earned his B.F.A. in Acting from the University of Saskatchewan) he performed for the first time as a professional in Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's productions of The Tempest and Henry IV: Part I. Since then, he has been involved in a four-month long touring puppet show with Wide Open Theatre, and performed with up-and-coming comedy sketch group, Skit Skit. Later this year, Ed will be serving on the Board of Directors for the Live Five Independent Theatre group.

Beginning in June, this year's Emerging Artists will begin four weeks of intense rehearsals before appearing on stage with their professional acting partners in front of a live audience on the 7th of July. The process will be challenging; not only will they be working with some of Saskatchewan's finest professional artists – they'll be performing material written by the greatest and most influential playwright to have ever lived. Learning two plays in a four-week period is no easy task; however, by the end of the Festival's seven-week run, the actors will have performed in front of nearly 12,000 people on one of Saskatchewan's most demanding stages, allowing them to gain a wealth of new experience and exposure that is certain to help propel their professional careers.

The 2010 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival runs from July 7th to August 22nd on its beautiful riverbank site next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Featured this year is The Merry Wives of Windsor, a rollicking farce featuring the antics of the incomparable rogue Sir John Falstaff, and The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare's brilliant exploration of prejudice and usury. To take advantage of this year's special Procrastinators' Week savings, visit any Ticketmaster outlet and order your tickets now! For more information, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

It's only a matter of weeks before Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan raises its big white tents along the river's edge to share the magical stories of William Shakespeare in the heart of Saskatoon. With two magnificent shows lined up and some of Saskatchewan's finest theatre talent working hard to put on an unforgettable show, 2010 is shaping up to be another exciting year for the Festival.

Tickets for this summer went on sale in April, and are now available for purchase through Ticketmaster outlets everywhere. As always, Shakespeare staff is encouraging fans to buy their tickets early since the shows traditionally sell-out towards the end of the season; however this year they're adding a little extra incentive for those who might otherwise put off their ticket purchases until the last weeks of the Festival.

For the first time ever, the Shakespeare crew is offering a special box office discount on any ticket purchases made for shows playing in its first full week of performances. Dubbed Procrastinators' Week (for those who find themselves missing out on the shows each year), this fantastic new discount opportunity offers a $5 savings to all adults, seniors, students, and youths wishing to attend evening performances between July 13th and 18th. For even better savings, fans can check out a thrilling matinee performance of The Merry Wives of Windsor on Sunday July 18th, when adult admission drops to $20, student and senior to $15, and youth to $8. These are cheapest performances you'll find at the Festival all summer – if you're looking for great savings, or simply find yourself missing the chance to take in the shows each season, this might be the perfect opportunity for you!

As the name would suggest, Procrastinators' Week is designed to persuade more visitors to attend performances earlier in the season. Over the past several years, Festival organizers have noticed the disappointed looks on the faces of would-be patrons who waited too late to purchase their tickets and were turned away amidst sold-out performances. In addition to creating a great opportunity for savings, Procrastinators' Week will encourage more patrons to make their plans to attend earlier in the season, resulting in more smiles and more enjoyment in the Shakespeare tents.

The 2010 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival runs from July 7th to August 22nd on its beautiful riverbank site next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Featured this year is The Merry Wives of Windsor, a rollicking farce featuring the antics of the incomparable rogue Sir John Falstaff, and The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare's brilliant exploration of prejudice and usury. To take advantage of this year's special Procrastinators' Week savings, visit any Ticketmaster outlet and order your tickets now! For more information, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is busily preparing for this summer's exciting season of faire faces and false hearts and is pleased to reveal two of the latest talents to join the cast of the hilarious farce, The Merry Wives of Windsor.

Vibrant and talented Angela Christie, founding member of Theater Ecstasis (a core company of Live Five) will return to the Shakespeare stage this season to take on the role of Mistress Page – one of two wealthy women that have caught the attention of John Falstaff. Running low on party funds, the conniving Falstaff devises a plan to seduce Mistress Page and (unbeknownst to him at the time) her good friend Mistress Ford, in an attempt to secure a little love and a lot of money. The women are clever, however, and quickly turn Falstaff's plan against him – much to their amusement. Meanwhile, Mistress Page is engaged in a battle with her husband over who should wed their daughter Anne. Mistress Page favors Caius; her husband favors Slender; Anne favors neither. Angela was last seen performing on the Shakespeare stage in 2003 as "Clelia" in As You Like It and "Mariana" in Measure for Measure. She served as the company's assistant stage manager in 2008 and 2009.

Playing the role of Mistress Ford is Catherine Harrison, performing for her first time under the big white tent. After discovering the less-than-noble intentions of Sir John Falstaff, Mistress Ford helps Mistress Page orchestrate a plan to humiliate him in front of the whole town. Her husband, Master Ford, becomes aware of Falstaff's plan and fears that his wife will fall for him. Mistress Ford must prove to her neurotic husband that she is faithful so that he will get over his oppressive jealousy. Although this will be Catherine's first time performing on Shakespeare's summer stage, this will not be her first time working with the company. Last spring, Catherine was a narrator for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's experimental play reading of Titus Andronicus. Catherine is a writer, performer, and producer with her company 400lbs of Sunshine, acore member company of Live Five. She has also performed in a variety of roles at Persephone Theatre.

The 2010 Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival runs from July 7 to August 22 in the big white tents next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster outlets everywhere. For more information, visit: www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Tickets for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s 2010 season are now on sale through Ticketmaster outlets everywhere. This summer, Saskatoon’s premier outdoor theatre festival presents two more fantastic plays from the great bard’s canon: The Merchant of Venice ’ Shakespeare’s unique blending of comedy and tragedy that is certain to enthrall ’ plays in repertory with the hilarious and fast-paced comedy, The Merry Wives of Windsor.

MainStage performances run from July 7th to August 22nd with admission ranging from $10 to $30 (special group discount rates are also available). The Festival’s popular Medieval Feasts will be back this summer with events set for July 11th and 18th (tickets are $75). Fans can also look forward to special guest performances in the MainStage Tent along with a variety of festive events and activities on the Community Showcase Stage. For tickets to The Merchant of Venice and The Merry Wives of Windsor, call Ticketmaster at 938-7800 or 1-800-970-7328 or visit: www.ticketmaster.ca

Up-to-date information including show descriptions and performance schedules can be found at the Festival’s website: www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

Fans and friends of Shakespeare will gather in the Delta Bessborough Hotel at 6:30pm for cocktails, followed by dinner and activities at 7:30pm. Tickets are $75 (partial tax receipt is available). To inquire about securing your spot at this great event, call Shakespeare’s administrative office at 653-2300. For a full description of the menu and activities, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com/events

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s sixth annual Bard’s Birthday Bash Fundraiser is set to take place on April 24th and tickets are moving fast!

In celebration of William Shakespeare’s 446th birthday, this joy-filled night of fabulous food, fun and friendship features a delightful dinner in the beautiful Delta Bessborough Hotel, followed by a fun-filled night of exciting activities and bard-brained revelry. Enthusiastic fans will test their minds in the Shakespeare Trivia Challenge; bid on exciting items in the silent auction; and compete head-to head in front of a celebrity judge panel in the hilarious and always popular Shakespeare Idol Contest (this year’s judges include Jeff Rogstad, Alphonse Gaudet, and Andrea Menard). Numerous prize draws will be made throughout the night! Celebrity auction donations to date include items from Kenneth Branagh, the cast of Desperate Housewives, Tom Cruise, Dustin Hoffman, Ian Holm, Ewen McGregor, Ian McKellan, Christopher Lee, and Daniel Radcliffe.

Fans and friends of Shakespeare will gather in the Delta Bessborough Hotel at 6:30pm for cocktails, followed by dinner and activities at 7:30pm. Tickets are $75 (partial tax receipt is available). To inquire about securing your spot at this great event, call Shakespeare’s administrative office at 653-2300. For a full description of the menu and activities, visit www.shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com/events

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has official added two more names to the cast of its 2010 season. Shakespeare veterans Robert Benz and Ralph Blankenagel will both be returning this summer to display their talents under the big white tent.

Benz (praised for his work as "Prospero" in 2008’s The Tempest and as "Nick Bottom" in last year’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream) will be playing the boisterous and mischievous Falstaff one of Shakespeare’s greatest characters – in this year’s production of the hilarious and fast-paced farce, The Merry Wives of Windsor. Falstaff is running low on party funds and hatches a clever scheme to hustle two wealthy women. A little love and a lot of money are his goal; however, the women prove to be wittier than Falstaff. Blankenagel (recipient of the Continuing Achievement Award at the 2010 Saskatoon and Area Theatre Awards) will go head-to-head with Benz in the role of Ford – jealous and neurotic husband of one of the mistresses.

The Merry Wives of Windsor and The Merchant of Venice will play in repertory this summer from July 7th to August 22nd at the Festival’s beautiful riverbank site next to the Mendel Art Gallery. Tickets go on sale in April.

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s Board of Directors was pleased to present this year’s annual report to its membership Wednesday December 9th. The company had a very successful year artistically; and despite poor weather in July it faired well financially as well.

Board president Don Greer spoke of the successful twenty-fifth anniversary season featuring A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Antony & Cleopatra. Based on the recent success, he anticipates great prosperity over the next twenty-five years. Greer thanked board, staff, volunteers, and artists for a great year and led members in a round of applause for the work of Mark von Eschen, Artistic and Executive Director.

Darren Howarth, Treasurer, presented the financial statements and was pleased to announce that the company was successful in achieving the ambitious budget for the twenty-fifth anniversary year. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan records a $14,000 profit for the year and is slowly building a reserve fund to insure financial security in the future. A recently developed capital fund will be used to purchase and/or replace much needed equipment for the company.

Artistic and Executive Director Mark von Eschen credits the company’s success over the last five years to building a successful team within the company that is supported by an incredible set of local sponsors that believe in the importance of Shakespeare in our community.

Elections were held for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s Board of Directors. The Board’s Executive team will remain the same; President Don Greer and Secretary Jessica Hughes were re-elected for two-year terms along with members-at-large Marc Bourassa and George Haines. The Board is also excited to welcome two new members to its team; Bill Quine and Karen Pitka bring with them a wealth of combined experience that will make them a great addition to the board.

Audience survey statistics for the past season were also presented to the members. Overall impressions of the festival were very positive; over 90% of respondents rated quality of production as excellent and over 95% said that they would attend the festival again. The Festival entertained people from all across Canada as well as visitors from the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America.

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at: (306) 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Earlier this morning, media and supporters of Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan gathered at the company's new home in Saskatoon's Dance Saskatchewan building to listen in on a major announcement regarding plans for next year's festival.

Executive and Artistic Director Mark von Eschen has revealed the first cast member to join the team; former Artistic Director Henry Woolf is returning to the Festival – this time to lend his talents as an actor, taking on the challenging role of Shylock in next season's thrilling production of The Merchant of Venice.

Woolf has acted and directed for over fifty years, and holds a long list of credits in both film and television as well as on the stage. He has been living and working in Saskatoon for nearly 30 years, and during that time has shown great leadership in the City's vibrant theatre scene. From 1983 to 1997 Woolf served as an educator at the University of Saskatchewan, (eventually becoming the head of its Drama department) where he went on to help many aspiring actors improve their craft. In 1994 he received the University's Master Teacher Award for his distinguished service. During this same time-frame Henry also became involved with Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan and in 1991 he became the Festival's Artistic Director, where he would lead the company to great success over the next decade.

Since leaving the festival in 2001, Woolf has continued to lead an active career in theatre. Earlier this year Henry toured Ireland in Samuel Beckett's Endgame (Henry is a self proclaimed "Beckett Freak" after playing in Beckett's Waiting for Godot at Persephone Theatre last year). He recently took part in two commemorative performances for famed British playwright Harold Pinter (Pinter and Woolf were lifelong friends and collaborators) in New York and England, where he received unwavering praise for his work.

Woolf's very first job as a professional actor was touring Shakespeare in Ireland way back in 1957; The Merchant of Venice if you would believe it, as Launcelot Gobbo. Now, a mere half-century later, he is pleased to re-visit the play as he takes on the challenging role of Shylock.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's 2010 season of "Faire Faces and False Hearts" is scheduled to run from July 7^th to August 16^th in the heart of Saskatoon and will feature The Merchant of Venice, a witty combination of comedy and tragedy, playing alongside The Merry Wives of Windsor, a fast-paced farce that will have audiences rolling with laughter.

It has only been a matter of weeks since Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan closed its gates and called it a "wrap" for one more season; but with the tents packed away and the dust beginning to settle, the company is already eager to get started on plans for next summer.

This year's festivities marked Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's 25^th anniversary and featured two of the bard's most brilliant plays: A Midsummer Night's Dream and Antony & Cleopatra. Stellar reviews and positive audience feedback helped to boost mainstage attendance to over 11,000 for the season (about a 30% increase over last year); however poor weather in July caused overall ticket sales to fall a few thousand dollars short of projections (about 2%). All things considered, festival organizers believe the event faired quite well in a time when tough economic conditions are forcing many organizations to report sales declines of 20% or more. The Festival managed to finish the summer debt-free and in stable financial shape.

It'll be another year before Shakespeare's tents rise again on the sunny banks of the South Saskatchewan River, but eager theatergoers will have an amazing summer to look forward to. Dubbed the season of "faire faces and false hearts", Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to announce next year's exciting lineup featuring The Merchant of Venice, a witty combination of comedy and tragedy that is certain to enthrall, and The Merry Wives of Windsor, the hilarious and fast paced farce that will have audiences rolling with laughter.

More details about Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's 2010 season will be announced in the coming months. Meanwhile, the Festival would like to thank all of the sponsors, funders, donors, and volunteers that helped make this year a success.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan celebrated its last performance of the summer this past Sunday, wrapping up another thrilling season along the river’s edge and marking the end of the company’s twenty-fifth anniversary. Despite cold, wet weather, the tents were packed and spirits were high.

This year’s productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Antony & Cleopatra (both proudly presented by SaskTel) got off to a slow start, but quickly gained momentum as the weeks rolled by. Cold and dreary weather in the early part of July caused many eager theatergoers to become cautious, with many opting to hold out for sunnier conditions before purchasing their tickets. Stellar reviews and outstanding audience response helped to give the shows a much needed boost, however, and by the last weeks of the festival the company was able to fill its house to capacity fifteen times, including ten of the last twelve performances.

Overall the season was a much-needed success. Mainstage attendance rose upwards of 11,000 for the season - about 2500 more than last year. 6938 patrons attended A Midsummer Night’s Dream, filling the house to 80% capacity over 31 showings. This year’s tragedy, Antony and Cleopatra, filled the house to 70% capacity over 20 performances with just under 4000 attendees in total. Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s Community Showcase Stage, which features a variety of pre and post-show entertainment, attracted another 3000 visitors.

Financially, the Festival is expecting to break even this year and will continue to operate debt-free. Plans are already underway for next summer’s festivities - details will become available in the coming months.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s twenty-fifth anniversary season is busily underway, but time to take part in the fun is quickly running out! The Festival ends on August 16th, leaving only a few opportunities left to experience the magic and charm this year’s magnificent productions. Tickets are selling fast – book your seats now before summer slips away!

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s quintessential romantic comedy, has been playing to sold-out audiences and rave reviews after opening in the beginning of July. Dazzling costumes and remarkable tunes set the tone for a hilarious production that StarPhoenix critic Cam Fuller described as "a wonderfully satisfying mixture of love and laughs". Award-winning Shakespeare veteran Robert Benz delivers an unforgettable performance as the hilarious Nick Bottom; and rising star Kaitlyn Semple (who can be seen competing on CBC’s "Triple Sensation") makes her standout debut as the cute and loveable Helena.

"Great costumes and humour, complete with song and dance routines, make A Midsummer Night’s Dream an outstanding theatre experience"
– Jenn Sharp, Verb News

Playing in repertory with A Midsummer Night’s Dream is this summer’s fast-paced presentation of the classic love story: Antony and Cleopatra. With exceptional performances delivered by an outstanding ensemble cast, this rarely performed masterpiece is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Talented Amy Matysio (as the exotic and beautiful Queen Cleopatra) steals the show with an emotionally-charged performance that critics have called "awe-inspiring", "commanding" and "impressively bipolar".

"Sharp, direct – and highly entertaining"
– Mike Thompson, Planet S (on Antony & Cleopatra)

Both of this season’s magnificent plays are proudly presented by SaskTel. Tickets are on sale now through the on-site Box Office (652-9100) or any Ticketmaster outlet.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is ready to kick things off for another exciting season of outdoor theatre fun! Returning again for its twenty-fifth summer along the sunny banks of the South Saskatchewan River, this year's exciting celebratory season will feature two of Shakespeare's most famous works with official opening performances set for Friday July 3rd (The Magical Comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream) and Saturday July 4th (The Heart-Wrenching Tragedy Antony & Clepatra).

On Sunday the Shakespeare crew will also host the first of two Medieval Feasts scheduled for this season (the second will take place on July 26th). Catered by the magnificent staff at Rembrandt's Dining Room, the annual Feasts are one of the most popular events to take place at the site each year. Only a handful of seats are still available – don't miss out on this spectacular opportunity!

This year's brilliant productions will play in repertory throughout the season until August 16th. Tickets for the Main-stage shows and Medieval Feasts are on sale now – call the on-site box office at 652-9100 to arrange your seats!

Where: Shakespeare Site (Next to the Mendel Art Gallery)
When: Tuesday June 30, 2009
Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Come join us for our media call on Tuesday June 30th. The cast will perform a short scene from each of this season's plays, and there will be several opportunities to capture video and take photographs. There will also be an opportunity for interviews within a limited time frame, and we will try to accommodate everyone as best we can.

***Scenes for both plays to be announced***

Thank you and we hope to see you all there!!!!

To arrange interviews please contact Trevor Broughton at 653-2300 or shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the brilliant cast of this year’s plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Antony & Cleopatra!

Antony & Cleopatra

Experienced Shakespeare veteran Tom O’Hara joins the cast of this heart-wrenching tragedy to re-visit the role of Mark Antony; Rome’s most honored soldier who - following the events of Julius Caesar - rules the Roman Empire alongside Octavius Caesar (nephew of the late Julius Caesar played by Festival newcomer Rob van Meenen), and Marcus Aemilius Lepidus (played by fan-favorite Alphonse Gaudet). In spite of his heroic past, Antony’s reputation begins to slide when his growing love for Cleopatra - the exotic Queen of Egypt played by beautiful and talented Amy Matysio (last seen on the stage in 2003) - causes him to neglect his duties to Rome. Kaitlyn Semple joins the cast from Regina to mark her Festival debut as Octavia Caesar (sister of Octavius); and Robert Benz (who received critical praise for his work as Prospero in last year’s The Tempest) returns to take on the role of Enobarbus.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Joshua Beaudry (co-founder of Theatre Ecstasis and member of the Saskatoon Soaps) returns for his fourth season with Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan to take on the role of Puck; the mischievous fairy jester whose devious antics set the tone for this charming and magical comedy. Matthew Burgess plays Oberon, the disgruntled Fairy King whose ongoing feud with the beautiful Fairy Queen Titania (skillfully played by Cheryl Jack) leads to an unexpected night for two unsuspecting parties. Practiced Shakespeare veterans Amy Matysio and Aaron Hursh team up with newcomers Duncan Fisher and Kaitlyn Semple to form the love-struck quartet of Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius, and Helena. Expert Ralph Blankenagel (the brilliant mind behind last year’s Falstaff) takes on the role of Peter Quince; the so-called leader behind a group of low-ranking soldiers that are preparing to perform a play in honor of the upcoming wedding between Duke Theseus (Matthew Burgess) and Princess Hippolyta (Cheryl Jack). Robert Benz tackles the challenging role of pompous (and utterly incompetent) Nick Bottom; Bob Wicks lends his talents as Robin Starveling; and Joel Bernbaum returns to follow up last year’s Festival debut as Snug.

With Production Stage Management by Laura Kennedy (assisted by experienced Shakespeare actor Angela Christie) and an amazing design team, this twenty-fifth anniversary season will dazzle and entertain. Imaginative Mark von Eschen provides the Artistic Direction; with amazing sets and lighting by Stephen Wade and remarkable costumes by Beverley Kobelsky (Antony & Cleopatra) and Carla Orosz (Midsummer Night’s Dream). Fight Choreographer Daniel Ford Beavis directs the action in Antony & Cleopatra; and Dance Choreographer Shannon Miko lends her expertise in the production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Tickets are on sale now through the on-site Box Office (652-9100) or any Ticketmaster outlet.

With only weeks to go before the big opening night, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to announce that the on-site box office is now open!

From July 1st to August 16th Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan will be celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary in the heart of Saskatoon. Featuring the magical fan-favorite A Midsummer Night's Dream playing in repertory with the heart-wrenching tragedy Antony & Cleopatra, this season is lined up to be one of the greatest yet!

Those eager to purchase tickets can visit the friendly box-office staff on-site; or give them a call at (306) 652-9100. The box office will be open every day from noon to 6:00pm.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan, with the assistance of the Community Initiatives Fund is making 100 free tickets available to Métis and first Nations Families. The program is intended to introduce families to Shakespeare’s plays as exciting entertainment, as he intended: performed live by professional actors. To obtain free tickets you must attend as a "family." You can be a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle, older cousin or sibling (or even a close friend of the family) and attending with a student or youth to qualify as a "family".

Performance dates – all matinees are at 1:00 pm

• Sunday July 5 – Antony and Cleopatra
• Sunday July 12 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Sunday July 19 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Saturday July 25 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Sunday July 26 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Saturday August 1 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Sunday August 2 – Antony and Cleopatra
• Sunday August 9 – A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is celebrating its Twenty-fifth Anniversary this summer. Come take part in the festival! A Midsummer Night’s Dream is Shakespeare’s most loved comedy; Antony and Cleopatra is a heart-wrenching tragedy.

These tickets are only available through Maureen Belanger, Program Consultant. Contact Maureen at: 230-3348 or r.m.belanger@shaw.ca
or
Through the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan office at: 653-2300 or shakespeare@sasktel.net

The sizzling summer heat is just around the corner, and what better way to usher its arrival than with the annual rise of Shakespeare's Festival Tent this Tuesday, May 26th.

The big white tent is expected to attract over 12,000 enthusiastic theatergoers to the sunny banks of the South Saskatchewan River this summer to celebrate the Festival's twenty-fifth anniversary, featuring brilliant productions of A Midsummer Night's Dream and Antony and Cleopatra (both proudly presented by SaskTel) running from July 1 to August 16.

Weather permitting; the big tent will go up at 10:00am on the Festival's beautiful riverbank site nestled between the University Bridge and the Mendel Art Gallery in the heart of Saskatoon. Those interested are invited to witness the event!

Tickets for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan’s 2009 season are on sale now through Ticketmaster outlets everywhere. This summer, Saskatoon’s premier outdoor theatre festival celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary along the sunny banks of the South Saskatchewan River with two magnificent plays: the great romantic tragedy Antony and Cleopatra plays in repertory with the magical fan-favourite A Midsummer Night’s Dream, both proudly presented by SaskTel.

Mainstage performances run from July 1st to August 16th with admission ranging from $8.50 to $29.00 (Don’t forget to ask about the exciting new PotashCorp Family Matinee Discounts!). Also featured at this year’s big event are two Medieval Feasts (July 5th and 26th) along with various festive activities on the Community Showcase Stage and guest performances by DancEgypt. For tickets call Ticketmaster at: 938-7800 or 1-800-970-7328 or visit: www.ticketmaster.ca

On Saturday April 25, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan will say “Happy 445th Birthday!” to the immortal bard as it kicks off its fifth annual charity fundraiser event, the Bard’s Birthday Bash. Fans of the Festival will gather at the Delta Bessborough Hotel for cocktails and dinner, followed by a fun-filled night of games and festivities including Shakespeare trivia and the ever-popular Shakespeare Idol Contest judged by Alphonse Gaudet, Garth Materie, and Vic Dubois. Also on the agenda is a silent auction with great prizes to be won; this year a number of big-screen celebrities have shown their support with autographed donations including an autobiography from James Earl Jones, movie posters from Annette Bening, and photographs from the cast of Desperate Housewives.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary this season from July 1st to August 16th. Proceeds of the Bash will go towards this year’s exciting summer productions: the great romantic tragedy Antony and Cleopatra and Shakespeare’s most popular magical comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Tickets are $65 - Call (306) 653-2300 to order
(deadline is April 21st).

Elizabethan's had a hunger for blood and spectacle and Shakespeare delivered what the masses craved with this early play that propelled himself to stardom in his day. Proving itself too violent for the Restoration and Victorian stages, it sat collecting dust until the twentieth century when public favor shifted back to horror spectacle in film and on stage. Titus Andronicus is too violent to be suited for summer entertainment but is perfect for the cold winds following the Ides of March. Tamora seeks revenge for her murdered son; Titus seeks revenge for the rape and dismemberment of his daughter: Aaron enjoys villainy more than anything - how many bodies will litter the stage by the final curtain?

This special rehearsed reading of Titus Andronicus brings Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan to the BackStage Stage in the Frank and Ellen Remai Arts Centre for two performances only.

Call 384.7727 to order your tickets now!

Saturday, March 21st - 8:00pm
Sunday, March 22nd - 1:00pm
Tickets: $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors

Come out and enjoy Shakespeare's bloodiest revenge tragedy!

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Marketing and Public Relations, at shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net.

As we hastily settle into a busy new year, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is pleased to welcome a brand new panel of enthusiastic members to its board of directors!

Elected in late December of last year, Shakespeare's new board possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help push the company forward through its exciting twenty-fifth season. Leading the group is the company's new president, Don Greer; an architect with P3 Architecture and long-term supporter of the festival. Don will bring new enthusiasm to the company alongside Ron Morrison, the company's new Vice President. Jessica Hughes returns from the previous board to take on the role of Secretary. Newcomer Darren Howarth, a Saskatoon-based lawyer with Robertson Stromberg Pedersen LLP, will serve as the new Treasurer.

Eager to support the new leadership are the Members at Large, who bring a diverse range of talents and energy to the table. Marc Bourassa joins with a background in structural engineering; Brenda Fitzgerald is a retired CEO of St. Paul's Hospital; Nancy Grummett is an accomplished artist; Catherine Gryba is the manager of Leisure Services in Saskatoon; George Haines is a small business owner; Brent Nelson is a university English professor; and Ken Tickner joins as a retired Architectural Technologist.

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan looks forward to the new ideas, creativity, and perspectives that the board will provide in 2009.

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Marketing and Public Relations, at shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net.

For most people in Saskatoon, summer couldn't come soon enough! The relentless barrage of cold winter weather has sunk the city into a deep, dark freeze leaving the next few months looking pretty grim. In spite of Mother Nature's cruel winter plans, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan has a little something in the works that should help brighten the futures of chilly Saskatoon theatergoers.

While it will still be some time before Saskatoon can expect to see Shakespeare's bright summer tents along the sunny Meewasin Trail, the company is pleased to announce a new opportunity for enthusiastic fans to enjoy the magic of Shakespeare during the cold winter months: a winter reading of the brutal and bloody tragedy Titus Andronicus.  Two performances are scheduled for the weekend of March 21^st and 22^nd and will be Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's first opportunity to take advantage of Persephone Theatre's newly-completed Backstage Stage.

Modeled after a series of play readings in New York City, this experimental new project is a major step in expanding Shakespeare beyond the summer months and will allow the company to explore seldom performed works that are inappropriate for its regular summer setting. With the help of an important capacity building grant from SaskCulture, this project is designed to “test the waters” for community interest and future viability and is also a fun way to warm fans up for Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan's upcoming twenty-fifth anniversary season.

For more information contact Trevor Broughton, Marketing and Public Relations, at shakespeare.pr@sasktel.net