Today is the traditionally observed birthday of William Shakespeare. It is known he was born in 1564, which makes this the 450th birthday.

The Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre earlier announced the lineup for the 2014 season.   The dates have now been announced.

Two Gentlemen of Verona by William Shakespeare – June 5, 6, 7, 13, 15, 19, 21, 22
Enjoy a romantic evening under the stars with Shakespeare’s comedy of best friends divided by love, featuring wise-cracking servants and a playful pup.  This will be performed outdoors at the Hendrix Village in Conway and in North Little Rock.  One of Shakespeare’s early plays, it features romantic mixups, disguises, deception and a happy ending, all of which would become hallmarks of Shakespeare’s comedies.

Pippin featuring libretto by Robert O. Hirson and score by Stephen Schwartz – June 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 22, 25, 27
Based loosely on the lives of Charlemagne and Pepin, it tells the story of a young prince named Pippin who undertakes a musical journey of self-discovery that celebrates the magic of theatre. The current Broadway production was the winner of the 2013 Tony Award for Best Revival.  This will be presented in the Reynolds Center on the UCA campus.

Hamlet by William Shakespeare – June 20, 21, 24, 26, 28
Perhaps Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy, Prince Hamlet seeks to revenge his father’s death.  Directed by Robert Quinlan, who helmed the acclaimed 2012 production of Richard III, it will be presented in an intimate on-stage setting at the Reynolds Center.

The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare – June 24, 26, 28
This will be the touring production in a pared down special adaptation of Shakespeare’s rip-roaring farce, perfect for kids of all ages.

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre will be presenting The Compleat Wrks of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged) June 4 through 29.

A parody of the plays of William Shakespeare, this comic romp features all of the Bard’s plays being performed in shortened, and side-splitting, form.

Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield (former founding members of the Reduced Shakespeare Company) and first performed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 1987, The Compleat Wrks of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged) later played at the Criterion Theatre in London, where it ran for nine record-breaking years.

It has become one of the world’s most popular shows, playing frequently in a variety of languages, and is most notable for holding the (self- proclaimed) world record for the shortest- ever performance of Hamlet, clocking in at just 43 seconds.

You don’t have to be a fan of Shakespeare, or even familiar with his plays, to enjoy this inventive, fast-paced comedy!