'Welcome back!' Idaho Shakespeare opens with a thriller and a bit of a return to normal Dana Oland, The Idaho Statesman Jul. 15—Opening night 2021 at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival in Boise marked a welcome return to something that was at least close to normal — you know, the way things were before a global pandemic stopped the world and shut down ISF's 2020 season. This season still feels a bit different, but don't let the heat or the pandemic protocols keep you away. It's still a wonderful night of theater and community by the Boise Foothills. Although last Saturday's opening night was hot, it still was pleasant enough, with a breeze wafting through the riverside park and an abundance of shade in the amphitheater. By act two of "Sleuth," it was cool enough for a wrap. A near-capacity crowd of more than 700 spread out for dining — some with masks, some without — at tables or on the grass, for a more literal picnic meal.