For another summer the Capital Classic Theatre Company is putting on productions of the Shakespearean classics, ‘King Lear’ and ‘Twelfth Night’ at the 2025 Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival in West Hartford.

By Roz Green

Shakespeare fans and theater fanatics can rejoice as the University of Saint Joseph is once again hosting the Capital Classic’s Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival. And do not worry – it’s not too late to get tickets as these productions will be performed outdoors every Wednesday through Sunday from July 9 to Aug. 3 , or in the university’s Bruyette Atheneum if it rains

On Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m., people from all over crowded the expansive lawn to sit back, relax, and enjoy the incredible production of “King Lear.” Attendees brought friends, family, food, and joy to this exciting event where the festive atmosphere is a perfect complement to the production.

From the stunning set to the beautifully made costumes, Shakespeare comes alive through the Capital Classics experience. Most people have read Shakespeare at some point in their lives, but seeing his plays actually performed brings his writing to life in a new and exciting way. Although Shakespeare’s writing has stayed relevant throughout time, simply reading his plays doesn’t do his work justice. His plays are meant to be performed, not just read. 

By viewing the tragedy of “King Lear,” attendees were able to see the passion and grief through the actors’ performances and feel the emotions that are conveyed throughout the story. 

The story follows King Lear as he makes the decision of dividing his kingdom between his three daughters, Goneril, Regan, and Cordelia. He demands a test of their love for him. After Goneril and Regan share their love and appreciation, his youngest daughter, Cordelia, refuses to share her love, leading to her banishment by King Lear in a fit of anger. 

After King Lear shifts power over to Goneril and Regan, he descends into a state of madness. This leads him to a realization about love and loyalty, then regretting his actions towards his daughter Cordelia. 

Directed by Sasha Brätt, this incredible performance captivated audience members and left them on the edge of their seats. The hard work and dedication the cast members put into their performance was truly mesmerizing, and left the audience yearning for more. 

During intermission, audience members enjoyed delicious treats from OneSong Biscotti, along with a variety of other snacks and drinks for people to enjoy. Bug spray and sunscreen was also provided. 

Last year Capital Classics transitioned its annual summer festival to a repertory format, and the comedy “Twelfth Night,” directed by Brian Jennings, is another production worth seeing, filled with tons of laughter, love, and hardships. The  productions are performed on alternating nights, each bringing the timeless work of Shakespeare – both tragedy and comedy – vividly to life.

More information about the Capital Classics Shakespeare Festival, including pre-show entertainment and associated activities, and the link to purchase tickets, can be found here.

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