Sweet Tea Shakespeare Company, a new summer theater project in Fayetteville, will present William Shakespeare's raucous and moving comedy "Much Ado About Nothing," and Oscar Wilde's hilarious tale of misbehavior, "The Importance of Being Earnest," outdoors this summer at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

The project, headed by Jeremy Fiebig, assistant professor of theater at Fayetteville State University, emerged from planning over the last year with partners at the FSU Foundation, Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Gilbert Theater, the FSU Fine Arts Series and local theater artists.

One aim of Sweet Tea Shakespeare is to forge key partnerships between FSU and these and other local partners in the hopes of making the project an annual summer tradition in Fayetteville. The group is actively seeking donors to sponsor these events.

Inspired by the rich traditions of Shakespeare and the people, places and committed work of its artists and audiences, Sweet Tea Shakespeare seeks to vitalize the performance of Shakespeare and other drama for the diverse communities of southeast North Carolina by presenting inspiring, accessible, literate, experiential theatrical performance. Performances will feature live, acoustic music, and excellent local talent.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden encompasses 77 acres of pine and hardwood forest, and boasts meticulously preserved natural areas of the region's indigenous plants, trees and wildlife. The cultivated garden areas showcase more than 2,000 varieties of ornamental plants.

The opening of the Wyatt Visitors Pavilion Complex at Cape Fear Botanical Garden has enabled the garden to expand educational, recreational and cultural programs. Both Shakespeare productions will be presented at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

"Much Ado About Nothing" runs June 27-July 1 at 7 p.m. "The Importance of Being Earnest" runs July 18-22 at 7 p.m.

Audiences are encouraged to bring their own seating, from blankets to lawn chairs, for a fun-filled evening of theater. Food, beer and wine will be available for purchase, and chairs will be available to rent.

Tickets are $20 for general admission, $16 for Cape Fear Botanical Garden members, $13 for children age 6-12. Children 5 and under are free.

Group rates and picnic packages are also available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the FSU box office at (910) 672-1724.