The Houston Shakespeare Festival

Since 1975, the Houston Shakespeare Festival has been making our summers richer, funnier and more dramatic. This year the annual tradition features a magnificent tragedy and a sweet tale of love. Julius -Caesar is one of the old Bard’s greatest tales of treachery and treason. When Brutus and Cassius plot to kill Caesar, all of Rome will pay. Suicide, battles, betrayal and big swords all play a part in the -tragedy.

For the more lighthearted, the festival brings us Cymbeline, a tender bit of joy that shows us all how powerful a woman in love can be. Imogen is one of literature’s most loyal lovers. When she’s parted from her husband, she suffers as no woman should. But this is a love story, and Shakespeare makes sure that love is not in vain. Cymbeline is a perfect play for lovers curled up under the nighttime sky on the hill at Miller Outdoor Theatre. 8:30 p.m. Julius Caesar is performed August 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9. Cymbeline is performed August 2, 6, 8 and 10. One Concert Drive, Hermann Park. For information, call 281-373-3386 or visit www.houstonfestivalscompany.com. Free.
Fri., Aug. 1, 8:30 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 3, 8:30 p.m.; Tue., Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m.; Thu., Aug. 7, 8:30 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 9, 8:30 p.m., 2008