Brian D. Schultz/Nevada Appeal News Service At last year's Foothill Theatre Company Shakespeare Festival, the minister in "The Merry Wives of Windsor" shows Slender, center, a lewd picture tucked into a Bible as Shallow looks on with interest.
Imagine enjoying a picnic on the beach as the sun sets, sipping a tall glass of ice-cold white wine, and feasting on gourmet foods as you watch the moon rise over the mountain tops and reflect in the glassy waters of Lake Tahoe.
Picture this scene as a prelude to an evening of Shakespearean comedy, performed by the Foothill Theatre Company, on the beach at Sand Harbor.
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival's 32nd season is Thursday through Aug. 22.
The festival has grown to be Lake Tahoe's largest annual event, attracting more than 30,000 people over the five-week run.
This year's festival will feature comedies "As You Like It" and "Much Ado About Nothing."
"As You Like It" is the story of two quarreling brothers, Duke Frederick and Duke Senior. It takes place in the beautiful but dangerous forest of Ardin.
Rosalind, the banished daughter of Duke Senior, sets off with Duke Frederick's daughter Celia in search of Orlando, the object of Rosalind's affection.
After a multitude of adventures, the story ends "happily ever after."
"Much Ado About Nothing" is the classic tale of Beatrice and Benedick and their zany, futile determination to not fall in love with each other.
Performances start at 7:30. Tuesday through Thursday and at 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
General admission starts at $20 with early-admission tickets for $30 for Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday nights.
Ticket prices go up $5 on Friday and Saturday, and reserved seating is available for $65 every night.
