BREAKING: The Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) is set to make a triumphant return in the summer of 2026, bringing outdoor performances back to Boulder’s iconic Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre. After two years of renovations, theater lovers can once again enjoy classic and contemporary plays under the stars from June 7 through August 2, 2026, as confirmed by The Longmont Leader.
This highly anticipated season will kick off with Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, “Twelfth Night,” performed outdoors. Inside, the newly renovated Roe Green Theatre will feature a dramatic rendition of “Julius Caesar.” The festival will also delight audiences with two contemporary productions: “Shakespeare in Love,” inspired by the Oscar-winning film, and the world premiere of “Friends/Romans/Countrymen,” a play by David Davalos commissioned specifically for this event.
Tickets are available now! Season passes can be purchased immediately, while single-show tickets go on sale starting December 1, 2025. This is your chance to secure a place at one of the most exhilarating cultural events of the year.
The renovations at the Hellems Building have transformed the theater experience, featuring expanded patio seating, a new airy atrium lobby with a café, and improved accessibility. This revitalized venue will enhance the overall enjoyment for theatergoers, ensuring a perfect blend of classic charm and modern amenities.
Celebrating its legacy since 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival has attracted Shakespeare enthusiasts from around the globe. As the festival prepares to welcome back its loyal audience, it promises to deliver an unforgettable summer filled with laughter, thought-provoking drama, and a celebration of the arts.
Directing the opening production, Kevin Rich will bring “Twelfth Night” to life, while Shelly Gaza will helm “Julius Caesar.” The adaptation of “Shakespeare in Love” will be directed by Terri McMahon, with music by Paddy Cunneen, and Tim Orr will guide the staging of “Friends/Romans/Countrymen.”
As excitement builds for the 2026 season, this year’s festival is shaping up to be both a celebration of past masterpieces and a showcase of innovative new works. Mark your calendars and prepare for a summer that promises to encapsulate the essence of theater in Boulder, where tradition meets innovation in a stunning outdoor setting.
Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling return of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival!
