Shakespeare productions accompanied by sunset, sea

A cool ocean breeze and the evening sunset will set the stage for the Newport Beach Arts Commission’s presentation of Shakespeare by the Sea, opening Saturday at Grant Howald Park.

Theater audiences can enjoy courtroom drama and mistaken identity with Saturday’s performance of “The Merchant of Venice,” or catch “The Taming of the Shrew” on Sunday.

Both performances begin at 7 p.m., with pre-show activities starting at 6:45 p.m. It is recommended guests arrive early and bring blankets and lawn chairs. Neighborhood parking will be available.

For more information, call (949) 644-3211, ext. 2155 or go to www.shakespearebythesea.org.

— Jessie Brunner