Original Practice Shakespeare Festival presents “Merry Wives of Windsor”

Original Practice Shakespeare Festival offers a free presentation of “Merry Wives of Windsor” at 7 p.m. July 14 at Laurelhurst Park, Southeast Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard and Stark Street, 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: Falstaffe woos two wives simultaneously hoping they will shower their husbands’ money on him. Discovering this, they teach him a lesson using their wits and a jealous husband. Meanwhile, three suitors compete for Anne who, defying her parents, chooses for herself. All plots are uncovered in a fairy-filled finale.

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.