Opus 40, Harvey Fite's masonry masterpiece in Saugerties, is worth the trip anytime. But they also hold special programming that combines the natural beauty and topographical intrigue of the site with riveting performances.
On July 7, the Dzieci Theater Company will perform their haunting interpretation of "Macbeth." You've never seen Shakespeare like this before. "Makbet" is an exciting, experimental take on a storied classic. There is no set. No lights. No music or sound effects. Just performers transcending a small space. All members have the entire play memorized and spontaneously switch roles in every sequence. The transformed, single-act production incorporates folk songs and chants from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Huffington Post drama critic David Finkle calls it an "eye-popping, ear-poking confirmation that Shakespeare once again constructed something not easily degraded." Dzieci Theater is dedicated to healing and forming community through theater. Their intimate performance of "Makbet" comes to Opus 40 in Saugerties on July 7 at 6pm. (845) 246-3400.
Later in the month, the 1960s smash hit musical, "Hair," comes to the outdoor stage at Opus 40. The New Jersey-based ensemble Centenary Stage Company will bring new life to this al fresco production. Born out of the free love hippie counterculture, this musical became anthemic for the pro-peace flower power movement. The Opus 40 production will be on Sunday, July 29, at 1 pm. Tickets are $30 advance, $40 day of performance.