“ShakesBeer: A Brewery Tour” offers a unique view of the Bard’s work

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On March 27, Lumen Repertory Theatre announced the opening production of the 2023 inaugural season. Part Shakespeare, part interactive storytelling and part brewery tour, “ShakesBeer” is an inventive foray into the world of the Bard that tackles theatre, art and craft brews at a breathtaking pace.

Tickets are $45 (includes one free drink) Go to lumenrep.org/shows/shakesbeer to purchase tickets.

Somewhat improvised and interactive, this slightly inebriated Shakespeare performance shines a light on scenes from some of Shakespeare’s most well-known plays while seamlessly flowing into an interactive show where the audience can be spectators, participants, beer drinkers … or all three.

Performances of “ShakesBeer” begin April 15 and run until May 3 and will take place at well-known breweries located in the Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beaches area. This innovative slice of theatre begins with the Lumen Repertory Theatre cast gathering the audience around them, spinning a wheel and then performing whatever type of Shakespeare scene is selected. 

“In the intimate setting of a brewery, “ShakesBeer” audience members will experience high-quality Shakespeare that is accessible, understandable, fun and ultimately meaningful, allowing us all a chance to see ourselves reflected throughout the many possibilities the format of this show provides,” said Brian Niece, Lumen Repertory Theatre co-founder and artistic director. “Shakespearean style improv? Of course! Sword fights so close you feel it? Sure! I might get to act on stage with the pros? Indeed! Drinking games at a Shakespeare show? Why not! Stumble into a brewery and find myself moved in powerful ways? Absolutely!”

“Shakesbeer: A Brewery Tour” shows:

  • April 15, 8 p.m. Ink Factory Brewing, 602 Shetter Ave., Jacksonville Beach
  • April 16, 4 p.m. Ink Factory Brewing
  • April 23, 4 p.m. Bold City Brewery, 2670 Rosselle St. No. 7, Jacksonville
  • April 26, 8 p.m. Strings Sports Brewery, 1850 N. Main St., Jacksonville
  • April 29, 8 p.m. Ink Factory Brewing
  • April 30, 4 p.m. Ink Factory Brewing
  • May 2, 8 p.m. Bold City Brewery
  • May 3, 8 p.m. Intuition Bier Hall, 929 E Bay St., Jacksonville