Even the rich and famous need a little culture. There to provide some artistry to the denizens of the clutch of high-toned East Long Island towns known collectively as The Hamptons is The Hamptons Shakespeare Festival. The Fest's 2000 season began with Much Ado About Nothing, running Aug. 2-20 (officially opening Aug. 5), at the Theodore Roosevelt County Park in Montauk (although Montauk, at Land's End, is not officially thought of as a Hampton).

Now Much Ado will move further inland, to Agawam Park in Southhampton, where the fest will perform Aug. 25-Sept. 3.

Executive Director David M. Brandenburg has set the classic battle-of-the sexes comedy in post-World War II America. Why? Something to do with the sexual excitement preceding the baby boom. The actors include Renee Howard and Alice Vienneau.

Admission is free, though a $10 donation is suggested. For information, call (631) 267-0105.

--By Robert Simonson