The idyllic setting of Preston Park is but a stage for the thespians of the Hobnob Theatre Company as they present “Romeo and Juliet” for its summer play in the park.

With crickets and birds running the soundboard and the stage backlit by the evening sun, it was time for the no curtain for a preview performance Wednesday.

A strolling ensemble began to play, and a drum kept the beat. The beautiful Taryn Pfeifer opened the show, and the players filed into the public square, or in this case a circle.

No pretentious clothing or props adorned the actors, some of whom were dressed in modern day clothing. Stripped bare of distraction, the burden of the show fell to the quality of the acting. It did not disappoint. A few tweaks throughout the production were welcome, as in the case of a female Benvolio and a hipster Friar Laurence.

The show unfolds around the paved circle of the park where we see the Capulets and the Montagues interacting overtly and covertly. Pfeifer's beguiling ways muddied the waters a tad regarding Romeo's pursuit of Juliet. Her lively chemistry with Romeo and Mercutio made watching the trio delightful.

The loud and larger- than-life Mercutio, played by Matt Leslie, offered a huge dramatic performance with his monologue “the Queen Mab speech,” beginning jovially and progressing into an intense frenzy resulting in a powerful performance. His sword-fighting skills weren't too shabby, either.

Romeo, played by Kyle DePasquale, offered up an element of physical comedy that made the Balcony Speech come alive. He shared excellent rapport with Juliet, played by Shannon Donovan, in their ability to conjure up and convey their passion to the audience.

The intense Tybalt, portrayed by Daniel Williams, gave the audience a glimpse into the depth of hatred shared between the two families. His sword-fighting skills and death scene were very realistic.

Several very strong supporting roles made the show enjoyable to watch. Elizabeth Smith, who played the nurse, shared her love and delight in her charge, Juliet. Her conspiratorial nature with Juliet was captivating.

Aside from the female friend of Romeo, the Jerry Garcia-version of Friar Laurence was a refreshing tweak. David Skeele rocked the role of the benevolent romantic spiritual leader for the star-crossed lovers.

Jeff and Alison Carey played Juliet's parents. Jeff's role as father took an ugly turn that was disturbing and violent when fair Juliet spoke against a planned marriage with Paris. His performance was hauntingly powerful.

The old bard would be happy to see what Hobnob's Liz and Kenny Smith did with his story.

If you are going, bug spray for the final scene especially is recommended, and a chair and comfortable shoes will make the experience even more enjoyable.

WHAT: “Romeo and Juliet”WHO: Hobnob Theatre CompanyWHEN: 6:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday and July 19-21WHERE: Preston Park, 415 S. Eberhart RoadTICKETS: $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and younger, available at www.hobnobtheatre.com or at the park before performances. Bring a chair or blanket for seating and some bug spray