Shakespeare's Alive in Montgomery

Hours Upon the Stage
If you think the approach is great, just wait until the curtain rises. July is actually the finale of ASF's repertory season, which means six shows continually run in either the 750-seat Festival Stage or The Octagon, a 225-seat black box theater. Naturally, the Bard's timeless works take the lead, but the theater is as well-known for its contemporary productions as for its classics. Plays by modern greats, such as Tom Stoppard and Neil Simon, share billing with shows by up-and-coming playwrights.

Of course, a play is only as good as its acting, and this season's company is made up of players from all over the country. "We recruit the finest actors from New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, among other places," says Kent.

The diverse composition of talent, the phenomenal facilities, and the high-quality plays provide a complete theater experience. I stand behind my claim that pound of flesh for pound of flesh, ASF holds its own with any theater around.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival:
1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117; 1-800-841-4273 or www.asf.net.
Tickets: Shows are $12-$45 depending on the production and seating preference. Call for multi-play packages and group rates.