UPDATE: The Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) is set to make a thrilling comeback in the summer of 2026, bringing outdoor performances back to the iconic Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre in Boulder. After two years of renovations, the beloved festival will run from June 7 to August 2, offering a blend of classic and contemporary plays that fans have been eagerly awaiting.
The reopening will kick off with a fresh rendition of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night”, performed under the stars, while the indoor Roe Green Theatre will host a dramatic production of “Julius Caesar.” The festival’s lineup also includes the adaptation of the Academy Award-winning film “Shakespeare in Love” and the world premiere of “Friends/Romans/Countrymen”, a new work by David Davalos, commissioned specifically for CSF.
Tickets are available now for season passes, with individual show tickets going on sale starting December 1. The excitement is palpable as theater enthusiasts rush to secure their spots for this summer spectacle.
The renovations at the Hellems Building have transformed the venue with enhanced features, including expanded patio seating and a spacious atrium lobby with a café, creating a more inviting atmosphere for attendees. These improvements aim to elevate the theater experience and make it more accessible to all.
With a rich history dating back to 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival continues to celebrate the works of the Bard and modern playwrights alike. The festival is poised to attract audiences from around the globe, eager to immerse themselves in the magic of live theater once again.
Directors for the upcoming season include Kevin Rich for “Twelfth Night,” Shelly Gaza for “Julius Caesar,” Terri McMahon for “Shakespeare in Love,” and Tim Orr for “Friends/Romans/Countrymen.” Each production promises to deliver a unique blend of timeless storytelling and innovative staging, ensuring that audiences will experience both nostalgia and new narratives.
As the countdown to summer 2026 begins, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival is not just a return to tradition but a renaissance of the arts in Boulder. Prepare for a season filled with laughter, drama, and the enduring influence of Shakespeare, as this festival gears up to captivate the hearts of theater lovers once again.
Stay tuned for more updates as the festival approaches, and don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting cultural revival!
