Center Stage will host its first annual Shakespeare Festival for high school students on the Bard's birthday, Tuesday.

Organized by the theater's education coordinator, Margaret Tocci, the festival will feature groups from seven area high schools performing scenes for an audience and panel of judges. The students also will participate in an acting workshop led by members of the cast of Center Stage's current production of "Twelfth Night."

The general public may attend the student scenes at no charge; Elizabethan dress is optional. The scenes are scheduled throughout the day at roughly half-hour intervals beginning at 9:15 a.m.

Examples of various forms of Renaissance entertainment, including music, dance and juggling, will be presented between the scenes. For more information call 685-3200.