We're a new theatre company in NYC that staged six Showcase Code productions last year in rented theatres. Needless to say, it's ridiculously expensive and money is tight. I saw a lot of companies bringing Shakespeare to the NYC Parks last year and we have a show about Shakespeare's company that we think would play well in such venues. With that in mind, a few questions:

1. Is anyone familiar with the process of booking such venues/spaces?

2. Do any of you have favorite outdoor spaces to work in? Any that you hate and that we should avoid?

3. Is anyone familiar with the AEA guidelines/restrictions for such venues and outdoor performances? We jumped through a lot of hoops submitting schedules and diagrams of bathrooms last year, and want to stay in their good graces.

I have personally directed a lot of outdoor theatre in local parks (outside NYC) and Renn Faire venues but I suspect NYC is a drastically different animal. So, a little help please? Thanks everyone!