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How to Prep for Long, Hot Days: Shakespeare in the Park

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Last Updated on January 23, 2024

Summer is winding down, and I still haven’t made it to the beach.  Life has been filled with moving, building, and creating. 

I have had the wonderful opportunity to be in another production with Shakespeare in the Park. This year’s touring production is Macbeth. We will be closing Saturday.

Our final stop is the graveyard at the old naval base on Mare Island. It is going to be spectacular. I imagine ghosts popping their heads up, relaxing on their tombstones, and really enjoying the show.  

 Photo Cred: Stephen Jacobsen

Photo Cred: Stephen Jacobsen

We’ve had a fabulous run, and I’ve had a blast. Each weekend we wake up early and drag ourselves to a new venue. We rearrange the set, fix entrances and exits, and adjust fights.

It’s an all-day affair made enjoyable with a rocking cast – plus we get to play with lots of blood.

 Photo Cred: Stephen Jacobsen

Photo Cred: Stephen Jacobsen

What’s been even more fun is planting some zero waste seeds. Several of us have been carpooling and some cast members have been bringing reusable bottles and stainless plates. Coffee is provided in the morning and I’ve seen cast members with real mugs. 

The mornings have been relatively cool. I get to traipse three blocks down to the stage manager’s house, grab her bottle, and continue my walk to the coffee shop. We’ve even discovered a pear tree along the way! We’re going to try poaching some when they’re ripe.

Throughout the run I’ve spied reusable coffee mugs, water bottles, stainless plates, and cloth napkins. We’ve been doing a potluck picnic where everyone brings something to share. I’ve been bringing fruit.

You’ll find me at the farmers market at the crack of 8 am to bring fresh, delicious produce wrapped in reusable mesh bags. I’ve brought grapes, peaches, watermelon, strawberries and blackberries. 

I’ve been toting along a mini cooler. It’s packed with two 32oz mason jars of water, my klean kanteen, a small coffee cup, and a small portion of dried nuts, fruit, and granola.

I have yet to run out of water. It’s so important to stay hydrated when you’re spending 8+ hours in the sun, and I was really hoping I wouldn’t have to use any of the plastic bottles provided.

So far, I’ve been covered. I also stuff a real knife, fork, two napkins, and two stainless steel plates – one for me and one to share. There’s always been a place to wash the dishes, even if it is the bathroom. 

I hope to see even more waste reduction in the future. I can’t wait to top this production next year! I’m sure the shows will keep getting better and we’ll keep getting greener.

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