Shakespeare's "Winter's Tale" comes to the Common

Shakespeare on the Common is back for its 27th season starting next week with free performances of "The Winter's Tale," the Bard 's rollercoaster ride through jealousy, betrayal and forgiveness.

Why it matters: Seeing a professional production of a Shakespearean play is a summer staple and a cherished tradition for Bostonians.

The play opens Tuesday, July 16 and runs each day except Mondays through Aug. 4.

• Performances begin at 8pm and there's a special 6pm showing Aug. 3.

Like always, the stage is built near the Parkman Bandstand and seating is BYOB: bring your own blanket. Or folding chair.

• You can rent a chair for $10.
• Food is permitted, but alcohol isn't.

Between the lines: "The Winter's Tale" is one of Shakespeare's wilder and darker comedies, following King Leontes who wrongfully suspects his wife of infidelity and abandons his family.

• His daughter grows up and falls for the son of the man the king thought his wife betrayed him for.
• It all leads to Leontes realizing his errors and seeking forgiveness.

Yes, but: There's a happy ending in this one, which is why it's technically a comedy.

Zoom in: Commonwealth Shakespeare Company Associate Artistic Director Bryn Boice makes her Boston Common directorial debut this summer.

• Stage veteran Nael Nacer plays Leontes. Regular Common attendees will remember him as Macduff last year and a memorable turn as "The Tempest's" Caliban in 2021.
• Local actress and acting teacher Marianna Bassham is his wife Hermione. She played Malcolm last year.
• Omar Robinson, who played Banquo in last year's production of "Macbeth," plays Polixenes.

What they're saying: "[Shakespeare] had been writing comedies, tragedies and history plays. Here, he takes chances on form, with a new way of storytelling that expresses the complexity of life, which is not all comedy or tragedy," Boice told the Bay State Banner .

Pro tip: If you want to eat before the show, Boston Chops is offering 20% off food with a receipt for a reserved seat or other donation to CSC.

• Dig is offering 10% off its family dinner bag for any play-goers who order a dinner meal before the show. Use promo code BOSDIGSDINNER at the online checkout.