» BEST BETS – Theater

Jason Asprey is Hamlet in this summerâ€™s Shakespeare & Company production, running from June 26 through Aug. 28 in Lenox, Mass.

“Shear Madness,” at Capital Repertory Theatre — The show that got its start at Lake George Dinner Theatre and then played Boston for decades. Audience participation. Starting June 5.

“Candide,” at Berkshire’s Unicorn Theatre — Leonard Bernstein. Need I say more? July 7-Aug. 5.

“The Goat Show” and “I Will Make You Orphans,” at Adirondack Theatre Festival — Cutting-edge, solo shows, whose titles are intriguing. July 6-11.

“Measure for Measure,” at Shakespeare & Company — An old chestnut performed by the young interns at the new Lunchbox Series (12:45 p.m.) July 10-Sept. 5.

“A Streetcar Named Desire,” at Barrington Stage Company — Tennessee Williams. Need I say more? Aug. 6-29.

And a personal note

Farewell. After 13 years, I have decided to relinquish my seat on the aisle. It has been a privilege to write for The Gazette’s readers about this area’s remarkable theaters.

I was taught by the best: Peg Wright, Eleanor Koblenz and, especially, Dick Bennett. Reviewing colleagues Bob Couture, Chuck Coleman and Carol King have been invaluable sounding boards. Ditto Mike Eck and Bob Goepfert, at the Times Union and The Record, respectively. I enjoyed working with, and learning from, Elaine, Irv, Bill, Bill, David, Joe, Miles, Chris, Maggie and many other pros at The Gazette.

Finally, thanks to those who make theater happen. You enrich our lives.