Book Beat: More fun than reading the Bard

By Kathy Shaskan

I clearly recall the dread with which I approached each entry in that cursed tome, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. If your tweens and teens are of similar mind, take them to see the new production of MacBeth at the Two River Theater Company in Red Bank. It's way more fun than reading the play. Teller, the silent genius of Penn & Teller fame, worked on the production, giving it the feel of a horror movie. There's blood galore, spurting from stab wounds and spreading across Lady MacBeth's sullied hands, so leave the littlest ones at home. Through February 17.

New & Noteworthy: Bodega Shoppe, Red Bank

By KathyShaskan

In the heart of Red Bank, there's a special shop waiting to be discovered. It's called Bodega Shoppe, taking its name from the New York City corner markets that sell a little bit of everything. Bodega Shoppe does just that, offering a wide variety of new and vintage merchandise. You'll find delicate glassware, European fragrances and skincare, vintage mirrors, English stationery and more. Other standouts include Lucy Jane Batchelor products, for which Bodega Shoppe is the exclusive US retailer; and Maribelle Chocolate and Teas. More info here.