After a lengthy 19-year hiatus, Fort Bend County Libraries is rolling out the red carpet (or perhaps a vibrant 1980s carpet) for the return of the beloved Shakespeare-by-the-Book Festival this fall! This exciting event is part of the “On Stage at the George” series and promises a delightful dose of drama, humor, and nostalgia — all for free!

A 1980s Twist on Shakespeare's Classic

Mark your calendars for the weekends of October 5-6 and October 12-13, when the George Memorial Library will transform into a hub of theatrical magic, featuring live performances of Shakespeare’s hilarious romantic comedy Twelfth Night. This rendition, directed by the exuberant Joseph “Chepe” Lockett of The Live Oak Playhouse, puts a quirky twist on the classic by infusing it with a lively 1980s aesthetic, complete with neon colors and retro vibes.

“Taking a play written 400 years ago and pairing it with styles and music from the 1980s may seem odd at first, but it’s right in line with Shakespeare’s practice,” says Lockett, whose vast experience includes acting in and directing a staggering 25 of Shakespeare’s 38 plays. “Just like Shakespeare’s audiences sat outdoors for daytime performances, our modern-day audience will enjoy the same under the Texas sun,” he adds, perfectly capturing the spirit of community theater.

 The Plot: A Comic Confusion

For those unfamiliar with Twelfth Night, prepare for a whirlwind of mistaken identities, love triangles, and comedic chaos! The play opens with a tempest that shipwrecks twins Viola and Sebastian, separating them. Believing her brother to be lost at sea, Viola disguises herself as a young man named Cesario to serve the lovesick Duke Orsino, who is desperately trying to win the affections of the beautiful Countess Olivia. What ensues is a delightful mess of romantic entanglements and misunderstandings that will have audiences laughing out loud.

Community Spirit and Family Fun

Fort Bend County Libraries previously hosted the Shakespeare-by-the-Book Festival from 1987 to 2005, captivating families and introducing countless Texans to the enchanting world of Shakespeare. This renewed festival aims to rekindle that enthusiasm while inviting a new generation of theatergoers. Monique Franklin, the Interim Library Director, expressed her excitement: “We hope those same theatergoers will now return with their children and grandchildren for this new chapter of the festival.”

In addition to the performances, families can enjoy a lively atmosphere with food trucks on site, and amenities such as restrooms and water fountains available in the library’s Bohachevsky Gallery. Theatergoers are encouraged to bring their own stadium seats or cushions, bottled water, and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable experience under the Texas sky.

Essential Information for Attendees

Location: George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview, Richmond, Texas

Performance Dates: October 5-6 & 12-13

Time: 1:30 PM

Seating: Concrete seating is available; attendees may bring stadium seats or cushions. Beach and lawn chairs are permitted only in designated rows on a first-come, first-served basis.

Prohibited Items: Glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are not allowed.

Conclusion

Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of live theater with a unique twist this October! Whether you're a lifelong Shakespeare fan or new to the Bard’s wit, the Shakespeare-by-the-Book Festival is sure to entertain. For more details, visit the Fort Bend County Libraries website at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us

So grab your neon leg warmers and prepare for a laughter-filled journey into the world of Shakespeare—Fort Bend County Libraries has truly brought the Bard back to life!