The original item was published from July 24, 2025 5:30 PM to July 24, 2025 5:32 PM
The beloved free, family-friendly Shakespeare in the Park event returns on Aug. 2 at Island Park in Geneva.
Goodly Creatures Theatre will perform the comedy “Much Ado About Nothing,” which starts at 6 p.m. and runs about 90 minutes without intermission.
Seating begins at 4 p.m. Guests should bring chairs and blankets for seating. Pack a picnic or purchase sandwiches, drinks and ice cream from Stockholms and Graham’s Chocolates. Dr. Brian Knetl, Waubonsee Community College President, will serve as the pre-show emcee.
“Much Ado About Nothing” explores the effect gossip, rumors and illusion have on two relationships. Claudio and Hero are engaged and in love, but Claudio is tricked into believing Hero has been unfaithful to him. At their wedding ceremony, Claudio shames and rejects Hero. Will she be able to clear her name? Meanwhile witty Beatrice and confirmed bachelor Benedick are engaged in a “merry war” of clever insults and arguments. Can the other characters make them see they are really in love by deceiving them?
The play is suitable for all ages and even audience members brand-new to Shakespeare will enjoy the comedy, according to Goodly Creatures Director Katrina Syrris.
“Our mission is to make The Bard accessible to all, and so we ensure that we use our body language and comic opportunities to propel the story forward. Delivery is everything,” Syrris said.
A pre-show contest will be held at 5:30 p.m. for the most elaborate picnic and the audience member who traveled the greatest distance to attend. Prizes will be awarded.
Parking is available at the Kane County Government Center, 719 Batavia Ave. Follow the trail north and cross the bridge across the Fox River to Island Park. Parking is also available in downtown Geneva public parking lots.
As always, admission to the play is free, and voluntary donations are appreciated.
The rain date will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3.
For more details on the event, visit the Geneva Foundation For The Arts website or follow Geneva Shakespeare in the Park on Facebook.