![Bergen Shakespeare To Launch Shakespeare In The Park With "The Comedy Of Errors"](https://www.newjerseystage.com/events2015/TheComedyOfErrors.jpg "Bergen Shakespeare To Launch Shakespeare In The Park With "The Comedy Of Errors"")
(Palisades Park, NJ) – Bergen Shakespeare, a newly formed New Jersey nonprofit, is bringing Shakespeare In The Park to Bergen County this summer with “The Comedy of Errors” directed by Vince Parrillo on July 24, 25, 31 and August 1 at the Overpeck County Park Amphitheater in Ridgefield Park, NJ.
Bergen Shakespeare was formed in 2014 by siblings Seth Feldman and Brooke Feldman, both born and raised in Leonia. “We both grew up performing in the outdoor summer shows during the 80s and 90s,” says Seth. “When I moved back to Bergen County in 2012 and saw the Overpeck Amphitheater for the first time, I immediately thought it would be perfect for a Shakespeare In the Park. We contacted the Parks Department and were welcomed without hesitation. Everyone was really excited.”
Admission to Shakespeare In The Park will be free to the general public, so Bergen Shakespeare is hopeful for large summer theater crowds. “The stage is elevated and the lawn slopes up, making it perfect for a theater audience,” says co-founder Brooke Feldman. “Plus, the audience faces East with its back to the setting sun; it’s going to be magical when the shows start at 8pm.”
For it’s first show Bergen Shakespeare chose “The Comedy of Errors” for its lighthearted plot and short run time – the show is around two hours long. “I look forward to creating a special play-going experience, not just for Shakespeare lovers but also for those unfamiliar with ‘The Comedy of Errors,’” says Artistic Director Vince Parrillo, a professor of sociology at William Paterson University and a fixture to the Bergen County theater scene for thirty years. “This production promises to be a unique outdoor treat for everyone.”
Bergen Shakespeare is a recognized 501(c)(3) public charity and is relying on donations in the form of memberships from individuals and sponsorships from businesses. Members and Sponsors who donate $100.00 or more will be offered the opportunity to reserve “premium” seats at a performance, which will be front and center to the stage. “The Amphitheater lawn is really big,” says co-founder Seth Feldman, “so there will be no shortage of good seats. The great thing about Shakespeare In the Park is that it’s a relaxed theater experience; all you need is a blanket or a lawnchair.”
The Overpeck Amphitheater is one of the largest outdoor theaters in New Jersey and has hosted many large events over the years, but never a theatrical production. “We are pleased to welcome Bergen Shakespeare to present The Comedy of Errors at the Overpeck Amphitheater this summer,” said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. “I wish Bergen Shakespeare the best of luck on its inaugural season and encourage Bergen County residents to attend and enjoy the performances in July and August.”
People are also encouraged to visit www.bergenshakespeare.org for additional information.
