Overlooking the shores of the Hudson River,
Boscobel Gardens is an idyllic setting for the arts. Their three-month
Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival begins this weekend with performances of the Bard's plays both traditional and radical.
Since 1987, this festival has brought William Shakespeare's works to the masses by translating his plays into contemporary scenes, costumes, and language. The most far-flung of these interpretations is The Bomb-itty of Errors—a rap version of The Comedy of Errors—opening June 19. This year's schedule also includes a tragic love story often overshadowed by Romeo and Juliet, Troilus and Cressida, as well as the comedy The Taming of the Shrew.
Shows run throughout the week. Tack on the picnic or wine option to your ticket and enjoy gourmet salads, sandwiches, and wine on the lawn before the show. Note that wine tasting is not available every Friday - tastings cost $10 per ticket and can be enjoyed on July 2, 9; August 6, 20; and September 3.
Each Friday, pre-show guests can join a cheese and wine tasting. Head to the opening night of Troilus and Cressida on July 3 and you'll be treated to good food, mingling with the actors, and the best view of West Point's Fourth of July Fireworks show.
