Original Practice Shakespeare Festival presents “All’s Well That Ends Well”

Original Practice Shakespeare Festival offers a free presentation of “All’s Well That Ends Well” at 7 p.m. July 22 at Irving Park, 707 N.E. Fremont St., Portland. The company uses the original practice techniques of Elizabethan England: limited rehearsal, scrolls in hand, audience interaction, and an onstage prompter. Gender-fluid casting (just like in Ye Olde Shakespearean Days) is the norm.

To sum up the plot: Hellena unrequitedly loves Bertram. She cures the king, winning Bertram’s hand. Bertram refuses and leaves for war with braggart Parolles and prankster soldiers. Attempts to seduce a virgin fail when Hellena secretly takes her place, thus consummating marriage. Back home, she reveals all. Bertram suddenly loves her. All ends well.

The Original Practice Shakespeare Festival performs all 25 plays in its repertory over the summer at 11 different Portland parks, with no admission fee. The company of skilled, flexible actors will perform with occasional interruptions of songs, dances and sketches. Shows usually begin at 7 p.m. and the audience is welcome to arrive during the hour before to watch dance and fight rehearsals. Children and leashed dogs are welcome. Picnic meals are encouraged. To see the complete summer schedule, visit www.opsfest.org.