"I saw this park, and I just thought, Wow, this park is beautiful. Why arent people using it more' The park just looked like it was built for Shakespeare."
Meet Sarah Steele, founder and producer of Allentowns Shakespeare in the Park, a unique theatre experience that brings New York actors and directors, along with beautiful music and outdoor sets, to Allentown.
Steele had been working in New York helping writers develop new work for the stage when she caught an itch to do something bigger.
When Steele visited her boyfriends (now husbands) family in Allentown, an idea struck her.
So Sarah Steele made it happen, spearheading a project to bring free summer Shakespeare to the residents of Allentown.
Sarah Steeles endeavor to create Allentowns Shakespeare in the Park began in 2006. She wanted to find a way to give Allentown something it didnt have yet: A free outdoor opportunity to add value to the community through theatre.
"That first year we kind of just said, Lets put on a show!" Steel laughs. "We were lucky to receive a grant from a private foundation and we went from there."
"Weve gotten very creative." Steele mused. "Were always figuring out how to do everything we want artistically with limited revenue. With an outdoor show, you never know what youre going to get!"
Since then, the program has blossomed into an Allentown summertime tradition. This summers production of Othello, marks the companys 7th annual production.
"We are thrilled to be back this summer. This is our most physically ambitious production yet." Steele says. "As our resources have grown we wanted to up our game."
And up the game they certainly have with this summers production of Othello, Shakespeare's famous play of love turned bad by unfounded jealousy.
Though this company has mainly performed comedies in the past, Steele is excited to dive into the realm of Shakespeares more serious work.
"This play is incredibly relevant to todays audiences." Steele continues. "There are some really huge emotions in this play. Othellos themes include jealousy, rage, hatred, passion¦ nothing subtle at all."
The outdoor venue is perfect for such an intense story. "This show is larger than life. Its intimate. The large space really gives the actors room to breathe."
"Were doing things with the scenes that weve never done before. Were finding more and more creative ways to use the space."
This year the company has stepped things up technically as well. "We have more intricate lighting, set, sound, costumes, everything!" Steele says excitedly. "Weve really pushed ourselves to put on the best show possible."
Theyve also utilized some original takes on the setting, placing the play post WWII after the integration of the U.S. Military. "We are basically building a military base on stage." Steele reveals. "In fact, were working with a military transport club who is letting us borrow a real military jeep for the run."
With rehearsals taking place in New York, making the transition to Allentown has been exciting as the cast and crew prepare for opening night.
Steeles company also gives local theatre students a unique opportunity to participate in the production. "We began out Actor Apprentice Program in 2007. We have 4 local high school students participating in this years show alongside our New York cast. Two from Allen High, two from LVPA. "
"Its just a great play." She says simply. "These are roles that actors are dying to play. Its still so relevant to society, its a timeless story."
The production also features an hour of music played by local musicians before each show to really create a night out at the park.
"Art is so important to us." Steele concludes. "Come with your family, bring a picnic, enjoy the park, enjoy being outdoors at this hidden Allentown treasure."
Food will be sold before the show begins, though families are more than welcome to bring their own.
Bring a blanket, some lawn chairs, and dont forget the bug spray! Then come out, forget your troubles, and enjoy some Shakespeare under the stars.
Allentown Shakespeare in the Parks production opens on Friday, August 8th at 8pm and 2 and 8 p.m. Aug. 9, at Joseph S. Daddona Lake and Terrace Park at St. Elmo and Union streets in Allentown.
Please visit them on Facebook for more information, https://www.facebook.com/allentownshakespeareinthepark