A dramatic recession advantage

When I lined up to get tickets to The Joseph Papp Public Theatre’s performance of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” at the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park, I found myself far, far back in the line that coiled itself from the foot of the theatre all the way to the southwestern entrance of the Reservoir. It was an overcast morning, much like the rest of the mornings in June had been. I had brought a blanket, an umbrella, a New Yorker and a bottle of water— I was ready for the wait.

Shakespeare in the Park is a long-standing and much-loved staple of New York City summers, and getting seats is based on a thoroughly democratic process. As opposed to the ridiculously high price of a Broadway show, this talked-up dramatic experience can be had for no money at all. What it will cost you is your day. People line up as soon as the park opens in the morning in order to be on the receiving end of the tickets that are handed out, two per diligent waiter, at one pm. The waiting process creates the ideal scenario for marvelous eavesdropping:

Overheard, a party of two:

“The last time I saw a show here was eight years ago. I’ve never had time to wait all day in the park for tickets before. The benefits of unemployment.” Aha! Perhaps the recession is good for some immediate enjoyment by otherwise overworked New Yorkers. Theatre to the people! Shakespeare to the unemployed!

Overheard, a young mother with her child and her own mother:

“I do a lot of consulting from home now.” Followed by a consulting call on her BlackBerry while her mother cooed with the baby. Aha! Employees working from home in order to decrease office costs in recession times. Weisure and culture to the technologically connected!

Overheard, line security guard:

“Due to the recession, I’m the only security guard on the line. There used to be four of us.” Aha! Not only does the recession allow more New Yorkers to take in an evening of free theatre in Central Park, it has made the waiting rules, (such as no taking shifts with friends, or having friends join you in line- rules which are strictly enforced, as the security guard tried to yell to the length of the line) easier to break.

Drama is obviously not going to cure your greater recession headaches, and I have all due respect for the serious troubles people are facing. But, when times are tough, people need some escapism and “Twelfth Night,” with its constant role reversals and disguises, is the perfect way to find some. So, instead of letting the recession get you down, go get yourself some Shakespeare tickets. It’s a fabulous production this summer, and Anne Hathaway (as Viola) is a true gem.

- Astri