Children to receive a free book at Shakespeare at the Market

Free books will be given to all children younger than 18 years old during a performance of William Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” set to be presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre during Shakespeare at the Market, 7 p.m. June 29 at the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market, 121 Orange St.

“Much Ado About Nothing” has been adapted to a one-hour performance. The cast of eight will tell a reduced version of this classic tale of Beatrice and Benedick who have sworn off love and each other. Their friends and family intervene to transform these sworn bachelors into a happy couple. Will these tricks finally put an end to their “merry war?” Enrico Spada will make his directorial debut with AST for this touring family Shakespeare production.

Attendees may bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating and a food truck will be on site; outside beverages and snacks will be allowed but glass is prohibited.

The AST is Arkansas’ only professional Shakespeare theater company and is based at the University of Central Arkansas. This professional company brings respected and experienced Shakespearean actors to Arkansas for each season, producing vibrant, engaging, lively and provocative performances for all Arkansans, a news release said.

Shakespeare at the Market is sponsored by Entergy, Walmart Neighborhood Market, and the Sturgis Foundation.

Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance is hosting the event in partnership with the Garland County Library, city of Hot Springs, and Visit Hot Springs.

The mission of the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance is to celebrate, advocate and promote the arts and culture of Hot Springs. The organization holds quarterly networking meetings to encourage cooperation and collaboration and also presents Arts & The Park, an annual 10-day festival held the first week in May.

Visit http://www.hotspringsarts.org or contact Mary Zunick at 501-321-2027 for more information.