Shakespeare in the Garden: Love’s Labour’s Lost

Join us for an enchanting evening of Shakespeare in the Garden, featuring Love’s Labour’s Lost.

Date

August 1, 2025 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Location

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

9th Ave S & Mayor Magrath Dr S Lethbridge, Alberta

Price

$20

Event Details

Join us for an enchanting evening of Shakespeare in the Garden, featuring Love’s Labour’s Lost, directed by acclaimed theatre professor Dawn McCaugherty (York University & University of Calgary). With decades of Shakespeare in the Park direction across Canada, Dawn brings classic charm to our tranquil setting at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden.

Event Details
Date: Friday, August 1, 2025
Performance Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Garden Closes to Public: 7:00 PM
Last Entry for Visitors: 6:30 PM
(Please note: last general entry is at 5:30 PM for this special event day)

Ticket Options
Regular Admission – $20
Includes general admission to the performance
Deluxe Package – $55 (Pre-order by 4:00 PM, July 31)
Admission to the performance
Reserved seating
Charcuterie cup
One complimentary drink (choice of liquor or ramune)
Get your tickets early – limited VIP availability!

VIP & Concessions
VIP guest list will be available at the Main Gate and Bar
VIP charcuterie cups can be picked up at the Prairie Garden Bar
Bar available onsite: includes sake, cider, matcha beer, ramune, and gluten-free cookies (card only – no cash)
GF cookies, water bottles, and select refreshments are available for all guests

Weather & Venue Notes
Outdoor venue (Prairie Garden) preferred, weather permitting
Final decision on indoor/outdoor performance made at 4:00 PM
In case of high temperatures (above 33°C), the event may move indoors
Please note that set-up and technical preparations will occur in advance; the sound crew arrives at 5:00 PM

Organizer

nikka yuko japanese garden logo
  • Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

Established in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s Centennial, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden stands as a tribute to the contributions of Japanese Canadians to Lethbridge, Alberta, and as a lasting symbol of international friendship. The name “Nikka Yuko” blends elements of both Japanese and English: Ni (from Nihon, meaning Japan), Ka (from Canada), and Yuko (meaning friendship), representing the deep connection between the two nations.

Opening Day and Hours

Opening day for 2025 is Thursday, May 8th.

The garden is open five (5) days a week:

  • Monday: 10-6pm
  • Tuesday/Wednesday CLOSED 
  • Thursday: 10-6 pm 
  • Fridays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm) 
  • Saturdays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
  • Sunday: 10-6 pm 

Daily Programming

  • Daily Garden Tours at 11, 1 & 3 pm
  • Thursday: Tea: 2 pm & 4 pm Pavilion/Ceremony (Program) 
  • Friday: Food Truck Fridays/Sumo/Anime/Wild Nights; Ceremonies 2pm & 4pm 
  • Saturday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program) 
  • Sunday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm   (Experience/Program) 
  • Monday: Meiso (Relaxation) Mondays

Performances and Presentations: 3:00 pm 

Yukata Dressing:

Guests can wear Yukata around the Garden and community 5 days per week.