JACKSON – U.S. Armed Forces service members and veterans can receive free admission to preview performances of The Winter’s Tale as part of a sponsorship agreement between JTV and the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, it was announced today.

In addition, all guests accompanying a military member can attend for half off the regular price(s) of $31 and $25. Preview performances of The Winter’s Tale are scheduled for 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 21, 2011 in the Baughman Theatre at Jackson Community College.

“We are proud and appreciative of the men and women whose sacrifice of service ensures our safety and freedom,” JTV Owner and President Bart Hawley said. “We are excited by the opportunity to honor members of the Armed Forces, Veterans and their families at the Michigan Shakespeare Festival this season.”

Veterans purchasing tickets online at www.MichiganShakespeareFestival.com should enter the code JTV at the checkout screen to activate the free preview offer and discounted guest tickets.

“Like JTV, we are proud of the veterans who have given so much in service to our country,” MSF Chief Operating Officer Richard Griffis said. “We are delighted that through the generosity of Bart Hawley and JTV we can honor military families in this manner.”

Romantic Comedy, French Farce, and Dreamy Enchantment are on the agenda this summer for the Michigan Shakespeare Festival’s 17th season. Fan favorite Much Ado About Nothing will anchor two plays new to the Festival: Moliere’s Tartuffe and Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale.  MSF’s professional Shakespearean company will run all three shows in rotating repertory from July 14-August 7 at the Jackson Community College Potter Center.

Founded in 1995, the Michigan Shakespeare Festival has entertained nearly 45,000 people of all ages during its traditional summer season. It has grown from a humble, single-week attraction with local amateur performers to a four-week, 23-show event featuring regional professional actors, playing to rave reviews each summer.

Tickets and more information are available at www.MichiganShakespeareFestival.com.

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