LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It’s been said the show must go on and that is true for the actors of Kentucky Shakespeare who perform each night, even in the heat and humidity.

For 64 seasons, Kentucky Shakespeare has entertained crowds in the heart of Louisville.

“We’re one of the oldest outdoor theaters in the country. We’re out here in the elements, which you know is such a beautiful magical experience,” Matt Wallace, the producing artistic director for Kentucky Shakespear.

The professional cast of 20-plus actors spend the summer performing. Rehearsals start in late April and the actors perform through the end of July. All of what they do is outdoors in an amphitheater. Wallace says the actors know how to handle the elements.

“It definitely can be a challenge, but we’ve been doing it for a long time, and a lot of the actors have been doing it a long time so they know the precautions they need to take,” Wallace said.

Officials limit actors’ daytime work and the shows don’t start until 8 p.m.. Rehearsals usually take place in an air-conditioned facility.

Sometimes, even the actors’ costumes play a role in beating the heat.

“When we can, our costume designer will take into account how those costumes are built. Are there places for cooling towels or ice packs in there?” Wallace said.

The actors also have air-conditioned dressings rooms that are hidden behind the large set at Central Park.

“Some of them won’t really go in the dressing rooms as much. So, we’ll be out here, but we’ll have fans backstage because it can be pretty shocking if you’re going right from air conditioning into the heat,” said Wallace.

Three very large old trees called “The 3 sisters” are built into the set and provide lots of shade. Even the way the C. Douglas Ramey amphitheater is built helps with temperature control.

“This amphitheater is sort of in a natural slope here and with all these trees really help to protect us, to cool us.” Wallace added.

Because even in the sweltering heat the show must go on.