Shakespeare under the stars at Te Puna Quarry Park this February

Theatregoers in the Western Bay have a treat in store this month, with Summer Shakespeare Tauranga Trust staging As You Like It at the picturesque amphitheatre in Te Puna Quarry Park. The production runs for eight nights between 5 and 15 February 2026, with gates opening at 5.30 pm and the show beginning at 6.30 pm.

The play is directed by Pascal Tibbits and features a cast of 18, including performers as young as 15. Trust spokesperson Vikki Tibbits said the amphitheatre and its surrounding gardens provide a stunning backdrop that many locals may not yet know about. She highlighted the trust's charitable mission of giving rangatahi and emerging artists the chance to work alongside experienced directors, technicians and actors, building confidence, resilience and creative expression.

Set in the lush Forest of Arden, the comedy follows the spirited heroine Rosalind as she disguises herself to untangle the complexities of love and friendship. Sabian Kulczynski plays Orlando opposite Zoe Cruse as Rosalind. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and a mini-van is available to transport patrons to the amphitheatre on request. Tickets can be purchased through Eventfinda.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).