And this stage is getting bigger. Taken from Beach Ave. above Sunset Beach, we see the symmetry of the structural frames which will house Bard on the Beach’s new mainstage theatre tent. The frames are now covered in canvas but this was the view at the end of April. Situated in Vanier Park, alongside Vancouver’s magnificent waterfront, Bard on the Beach plays host to one of Canada’s largest Shakespeare festivals with 86,000 patrons attending annually. This year celebrates its 22nd season.

The new Mainstage Tent will offer an expansion to 742 reserved seats. It will maintain its open-ended concept featuring one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world with views of Vancouver’s sea, sky and mountains. The site itself, not unknown to be soggy during the spring season, will be upgraded to include a rain garden in the north corner to improve drainage.

The whole site known as Bard Village also houses the more intimate Douglas Campbell Studio Stage featuring Shakespeare plays with less traditional staging. Now, it will also have reserved seating. Among the tented venues is a lively gathering place where theatre goers can enjoy concession and bar services and the Bard boutique.

The season runs from June 2 to September 24.