BPA brings ‘Romeo & Juliet’ to Bloedel

Relive one of the greatest tragedies of all time as Bainbridge Performing Arts gets set to stage “Romeo & Juliet” as their sixth annual summertime Shakespeare show at Bloedel Reserve from Friday, July 13 through Sunday, July 29.

One of the Bard’s most popular romantic tragedies, the story centers on a long feud between the Montague and Capulet families that disrupts the city of Verona and causes tragic results for Romeo and Juliet. Revenge, love and a secret marriage force the young star-crossed lovers to grow up quickly — and fate causes them to take their own lives in despair.

Esteemed local director Kate Carruthers leads an ensemble of newcomers and BPA favorites, including Gavin Michaels, Keara Dooley, Michala Hansen, Connor Kinzer, Dylan Zucati, David Breyman and others.

The play appears at The Bloedel Reserve (7571 NE Dolphin Drive) at 7 p.m. on July 13 – 15, 19-22, 26-29, plus a special pay-what-you-can preview on Thursday, July 12.

Audience members should be prepared for a brief, beautiful walk between the parking area and meadow. Gates open at 6 p.m. Patrons may enter the grounds earlier by paying a reduced same-day-only rate of $5, valid after 4:30 p.m.

Picnics will be allowed in the meadow after 6 p.m. Beer and wine will neither be sold nor permitted at this year’s event per regulations under the Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Board. These regulations will be enforced to ensure that all patrons are in compliance.

Just over two hours long, the production has one intermission. Patrons are advised to bring their own seats and low lawn chairs or blankets on which to sit. Staff members will assist patrons upon their arrival in the meadow. Seating on blankets will be in front; seating in elevated chairs will be in the rear. Space is limited, and seating is first-come, first-served.

Tickets — $29 for adults and $24 for seniors, students, youth, military and teachers — may be purchased online at www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org, by phone at 206-842-8569 or in person at BPA (200 Madison Avenue North).

Box office hours are 1 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Friday and one hour prior to each performance.