By Sophia Rutti
Small-town Middleburg will be getting a distinctly Elizabethan face-lift from March 27-29.
Shakespeare in the ‘Burg is an annual festival in which the town of Middleburg hosts numerous productions by the American Shakespeare Center and the Middleburg Players as well as a one-act playwriting competition, a film showing and workshops on stagecraft and acting.
If you’re a big fan of the bard, then this is an event that you will not want to miss. The American Shakespeare Center will be presenting two of Shakespeare’s most notable works: “Hamlet” and “Much Ado About Nothing.” You can experience one of the most tragic plays ever written as well as one of the most comedic.
Whether you’d prefer to watch two people fall in love with each other’s wit and mischief or see Hamlet struggle to avenge his murdered father, there will be something for you. Tickets for the ASC productions are $40.
If iambic pentameter doesn’t really light your fire, don’t worry. Swing by and watch the film version of “West Side Story,” based on “Romeo and Juliet,” and soak up all of the Shakespearean drama through song and dance.
Prefer to see people play music live? No problem. Go listen to music by the Crooked Angels for only $25.
Not to mention you can enjoy a close and convenient lunch or dinner between the performances and the workshops. Nip into either Julien’s Cafe, The Red Fox Inn and Tavern or the French Hound for a break from the theater. All of the restaurants are within walking distance from the venues.
All the while, you can enjoy everything that Middleburg has to offer: quaint side streets with boutique shops, historic inns and gorgeous country scenery. Swing by the National Sporting Library & Museum and learn about equestrian sports, or hop in the car and take a spa day at the Salamander Resort and Spa before emerging refreshed and ready to enjoy a performance of your choice.
An insider’s tip: Stop by Scruffy’s Ice Cream Parlor and enjoy a cone while you explore the town. Even if you live just 20 minutes away, the sugary treat will make you feel like a tourist.
For more information about scheduling, ticket prices and productions click here.
Shakespeare in the ‘Burg
March 27-29
300 W Washington St.
Middleburg
