Curtis Peeteetuce and Carmen Grant are making their debut at Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan this year. (Britainy Zapshalla)

The majestic Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan tent on the riverbank is a sign of summer for many in our city but for others, it symbolizes a lifelong goal. For more than 30 years the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan festival has been presenting the Bard’s work and celebrating local talent.

It’s a tradition that hooked actor Carmen Grant early. “I grew up in Tisdale where there was no drama program but during the summer, my parents would bring me to the city to see these productions.” She says, “It’s always been my dream to work here. It sounds like hyperbole, but it’s not!”

Grant left Saskatchewan to pursue acting and has carved out an impressive resume including four seasons at the Stratford Festival. When the call came for her to come home to play Fabian in Twelfth Night and Elizabeth in Richard III, it was an offer she couldn’t refuse. “This is an extraordinary season and I don’t think the two shows could be more different,” explains Grant. “Richard III is a tragedy and we do it in a most traditional, period kind of way. It’s what Shakespeare purists will expect. Twelfth Night, is full of laughter and bluegrass music and it’s just a lot of fun.”

“Richard III is a tragedy and we do it in a most traditional, period kind of way. It’s what Shakespeare purists will expect. Twelfth Night, is full of laughter and bluegrass music…”

Shakespeare and bluegrass may seem like an awkward combination but in the hands of this cast, it’s an opportunity to utilize their many talents. Curtis Peeteetuce is best known for his work as a Cree playwright and the former artistic director of Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre, but in these productions his acting, singing and guitar playing are all put to good use. “I knew that this kind of work was going to enhance my own art and my own work in theatre so I’m very happy about that.” He says, “I’ve always wanted to be involved with Shakespeare, this is a beautiful place and it’s a great company.” Peeteetuce plays five characters between the two plays.

For Richard III, the festival’s artistic producer Will Brooks brought in a man who’s made Shakespeare his business. Skye Brandon has performed in, directed and pursued an Interdisciplinary Masters in Shakespeare’s plays. This production will be full of blood, tragedy and sword fighting with Rob van Meenen in the title role.

Rob van Meenen (left) and Greg Ochitwa (back right) duke it out in Richard III. (Britainy Zapshalla)

Artistic interpretation aside, there are some changes to the site that audiences will notice. The tent has been moved to try and reduce the amount of traffic noise and the tavern and community stages are now closer to the University Bridge. There are many pre-show events happening on site during the seven week run. Public readings, dance performances and even a medieval feast can turn a performance into a whole evening of entertainment. The performances alternate on the schedule and Sundays there are matinees and evening performances.  Twelfth Night opens Friday July 7 and Richard III opens Saturday July 8. Tickets are $16 – $24.

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