Summer Fun in a Park Near You

SF Mime Troupe's For the Greater Good

We all know about these events, but somehow the summer can glide past without remembering to go and do.  Especially now that there seems to be so many fewer posters hanging up in store windows to give the old memory a jog. Or maybe I just don't get out very much any more.

For a few ideas before the August fog rolls in and the official summer is over (we all know that "real" summer begins in September 'round here):

Now in its 53rd year (my goodness, almost as ancient as I am), the San Francisco Mime Troupe is very busy presenting For the Greater Good in a large number of local parks.  Free to all, although expect to be hit up for a donation (well, duh...).

I saw the performance at Mosswood Park with some good friends and I strongly recommend the good friends part. The music, the singing, and especially the dancing were great but the preaching was a bit too much. It used to be funnier. But with friends, a picnic and some sunshine, I couldn't complain.

And the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is putting on Henry V this summer - their 30th season (we're all getting old).  I remember watching their production of Henry IV (same Henry, but with Falstaff for entertainment) a number of years ago.  Can't say exactly how many years, but I do remember that it was very good. And this one should also be good. Sadly, SF Shakes no longer holds performances at Lake Merritt, so you'll have to go further afield with your picnic, blanket and friends to see it.

Lastly, across the Bay, the venerable Stern Grove Festival has for 75 years(!) presented world class concerts and other events free and open to all during the summer. Cross your fingers for sun to shine.