By his own confession, Chris Wells is on a mission.

He wants to connect Dallas citizens to the great arts and culture available here in our fair city.

He's partial to delivering his message to Lake Highlanders specifically, because in addition to serving as Chairman of the Board for Shakespeare Dallas, Wells is also a Lake Highlands resident.

Of course this means he really wants our community to get down to the park.

"Shakespeare Dallas offers people this connection by producing great live theater in a relaxed atmosphere, and it's just 15 minutes from our front door," says Wells.

"The fact that it's available for no more than the price of a movie ticket also makes it an easy, affordable choice."

With just 2 weeks remaining in the summer season, he tackles one deterrent that might cause visitors to think twice about an outdoor performance in July - our record heat.

"People just don't believe you," chuckles Wells, "but it really isn't that bad down in the park."

"There's always a breeze, and while it's not as refreshing as a 70-degree day," he says, "once the sun sets it makes for a wonderfully comfortable evening."

Naturally, the live performances are the main attraction, and based on the rave reviews SD productions are garnishing this season, you better hurry and pack up those picnic baskets and head down to the Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre in Tenison Park.

Wrapping in just under two weeks are the Shakespearean comedies The Merry Wives of Windsor (Texas) and The Taming of the Shrew.

Under the direction of Rene Moreno and fellow Lake Highlander, Raphael Parry, both plays have a Texas twist this season.

And, in Wells' opinion, this provides yet another reason not to let the heat prevent your visit.

"The reviewers are really liking the creative direction they're seeing this summer," says Wells, "and so are our audiences."

The Merry Wives of Windsor is performing Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays through July 24th. The Taming of the Shrew can be seen on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays through July 25th.

Shows kick-off at sunset, usually a little after 8:00 p.m., so don't let that thermometer keep you away.

For more information about Shakespeare Dallas and details on remaining performances, visit http://www.shakespearedallas.org.