Shakespeare in the Great Outdoors

We love what we do


The sand and earth become the stage; the trees, rocks and natural environment provide the setting; together with stunning costumes, and great acting, the show is brought to life in the most believable and spectacular settings for 'Shakespeare in the Great Outdoors'.

About Us


OZACT is a not-for-profit organisation. We are a touring repertory theatre company dedicated to making the plays of William Shakespeare accessible and entertaining to contemporary Australian audiences. 

The company combines the Australian love of the outdoors, with the timeless stories and fine poetry of the world's greatest playwright. 



 

The presentation of Shakespeare in magical natural settings with a rich assortment of stunning costumes and exciting acting, is an OZACT trademark, and audiences eagerly anticipate each new adventure.


Meet the Committee

A Brief History


OZACT was founded in 1995 by Actor / Director, Bruce Widdop and his daughter Lisa Widdop. THE TEMPEST at Loch Ard Gorge marked the commencement of a line of impressive outdoor productions.

 

The company has since gained a reputation as one of Australia's leading environmental Shakespeare companies, producing some of the best outdoor Shakespeare in South Eastern Australia.

 

The company performs in wild and natural locations, from garden to seaside and mountains to mansions across Victoria and South Australia.

 

OZACT has earned great acclaim for productions including THE TEMPEST, KING LEAR, MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, PERICLES, MACBETH, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, ROMEO & JULIET, TWELFTH NIGHT, AS YOU LIKE IT, HAMLET and also several Shakespeare compilation productions including A FEAST OF SHAKESPEARE, AUTUMN DREAMING and DAD AND DAVE ‘do’ HAMLET.

 

Since the deaths of our founders in 2023 and 2024, OZACT has appointed a Committee and operates as a not-for-profit theatre company based in Melbourne, Victoria. 

 




"If music be the food of love play on." - Twelfth Night