Lakespeare is an independent theatre company dedicated to making theatre accessible to Canberrans. Each summer it produces Shakespeare by the Lakes, a free summer season of Shakespeare performances in Canberra’s open spaces. Its goal is for Shakespeare by the Lakes to become an official fixture in Canberra’s event calendar.

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Lakespeare has also produced a number of boutique shows such as Shakespeare Down the Pub (various pubs/cafes around CBR), Sounds of Shakespeare (2018) in the Botanic Gardens, and performed at several corporate dinners.

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The free shows are the motivation and highlight of Shakespeare by the Lakes. Lakespeare has aspirations to hold them in many more parks and open spaces around Canberra and its surrounding communities. However, funding is a limitation, and each season is shaped by affordability. 

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Performances that are free to attend are not free to produce. With no recurrent funding, Lakespeare generates revenue from sponsorships, occasional grants, and donations from patrons. Ticketed shows were introduced in order to remain viable. Rest assured, there will always be free shows.

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Lakespeare believes that live theatre is an exhilarating, shared experience. We make theatre accessible by bringing the experience and language right to you. Due to our free performances, audiences receive an insight into Shakespeare they’ve never had before. They are surprised and delighted that something 400 years old can be this fresh and fun. 

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Lakespeare would like to hear from theatre professionals who have a vision for a show.

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Lakespeare would also like to hear from venues that want to partner with us.

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Background

Lakespeare was formed in 2018 by Taimus Werner-Gibbings, Lexi Sekuless, Dr Duncan Driver and Paul Leverenz.

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Season 2024 Team:

Taimus Werner-Gibbings

Paul Leverenz

Denise Carlton

Cerri Murphy

Sophia Carlton

Cathy Day

Jonty Redman

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