The Bard and the Bible Launch #1 at Vinoklet

It would be tough to find a better venue for Shakespeare in the Park--and the official book launch for The Bard and the Bible--than Vinoklet Winery in Colerain Township, north of Cincinnati (except maybe The Arts Center at Dunham, which is hosting Part II of my book launch and a performance of Romeo and Juliet this afternoon!).

The Bard himself showed up for the event. Though we were expecting a hot and sweaty evening, it turned out to be quite pleasant, with gentle breezes blowing through the vineyard and cooling things off.

I met many new friends and had a great time (forsooth) spreading the word about my new book, a one-year devotional that pairs quotes from Shakespeare's works with verses from the King James Version of the Bible, both of which were created not only in the same period and same country and city, but within a few hundred yards of each other!

I was supported in my endeavors by my wife, the lovely Robin, and my daughter, the incredible Aubrey, who helped man the book table and guard the Smarties.

The Bard posed for a photo with one of the players (above), Aiden Sims, who played four roles in last night's performance of Macbeth and will appear as Juliet in this afternoon's performance.

The Bard even posed for a very sunny photo with two young admirers. Well, one of them only begrudgingly agreed to the photo with the creepy old man.

It was a wonderful evening in a spectacular venue. Though rain was in the forecast, it was only clear skies--and a few regicides--for the assembled crowd.