July 18, 2002 - Hadley, MA - One of Shakespeare's later plays, The Winter's Tale can present problems for modern audiences because, while it is technically a comedy, the first half of the play presents a picture of a family and a kingdom torn apart by the jealousy of its ruler and the death of its queen.  On Friday, July 26, before the Hampshire Shakespeare Company's performance of the play, Dr. Arthur Kinney, Director of the Massachusetts Center for Renaissance Studies, will give a brief talk that will help the audience put what it sees in perspective.  Dr. Kinney will speak at 6:45 pm, immediately before the regular 7 pm curtain time for the show at The Hartsbrook School, 193 Bay Road in Hadley.

The Winter's Tale run Wednesday through Sunday through July 28.  Tickets are $12 for adults, $9 for students and seniors, and $6 for children up to age 18.  Reservations are not necessary for individuals and small groups.  Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.  Call 413-788-4750 for information and group reservations.  For additional information, check the HSC web site: www.hampshireshakespeare.org.

The venue at the Hartsbrook School is handicapped-accessible.  Chairs are provided, and audience members can also choose to sit on the grass.  Audience members are welcome to bring picnics to enjoy in the beautiful rural setting.  All seating is general admission, with early comers seated first.  All performances proceed on a weather-permitting basis.  Umbrellas are offered to the audience in the event of a sudden downpour or light rain.  We do not perform in torrential rain.  In the event of a cancellation, all tickets will be honored at any future performance.

Consult the web site for complete details about all the Hampshire Shakespeare Company's many activities (www.hampshireshakespeare.org) or call 413-788-4750.

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