From left: Matthew Connor Paszkiet as Lucio, Caroline Dopson as Sister Isabella, Darryl Willis as the Duke and Patrick Price as Pompey Bum. Photo provided by Elizabeth Dashiell

"Measure for Measure" will unfold on the Seabreeze Ampitheater stage in Carlin Park when the long-running summertime tradition known as Shakespeare by the Sea returns to Jupiter.

Performances take place on back-to-back weekends, specifically July 6 through 9 and 13 through 16.

"'Measure for Measure' is about duplicity, duality and disguise, explored in various interweaving plots," Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival Artistic Director Trent Stephens said. "This summer's production will focus on the play's contrasting themes of spiritual and secular life, and what better place to stage it than in New Orleans during the festive Mardi Gras season?"

About the play: The city is plagued by vice, and the Duke has departed on a secret mission, entrusting his minister, Angelo, to govern and maintain order. Angelo takes his role too seriously, and when Claudio is apprehended, Lucio enlists Sister Isabella's help. However, Sister Isabella is unwilling to meet Angelo's unreasonable demands for Claudio's freedom. To resolve the situation and expose Angelo's double standards, the Duke devises a clever plan.

"While 'Measure for Measure' isn't produced as much as Shakespeare's other comedies, its production history seems to coincide with societal examinations of sexuality, morality and justice," Stephens said. "Like any good play, it presents more questions than answers, but the representation of these nuanced issues, coupled with a sense of humor, offers audiences space to think about these themes in a playful way."

Showtimes are 8 to 10 p.m. with a 15-minute intermission. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for pre-show entertainment by the Society for Creative Anachronism's Shire of Sea March. The local branch of the international organization is dedicated to re-creating the art and culture of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Members will perform live music and demonstrate sword fighting select evenings. Visitors are invited to bring beach chairs, blanket and picnic baskets. Onsite concessions are available. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5 per person. For information, call 561-762-8552 or visit pbshakespeare.org.

Shakespeare by the Sea at sunset. Photo provided by Elizabeth Dashiell