Colorado Shakespeare Festival Returns in 2026 with Major Enhancements

BREAKING NEWS: The highly anticipated Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) will make its spectacular return in the summer of 2026, bringing live performances back to the outdoor stage at the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre. After two years of renovations, theater lovers can once again enjoy Shakespeare under the stars from June 7 to August 2, alongside performances at the newly upgraded Roe Green Theatre.

This summer festival isn’t just a comeback; it’s a renaissance! The season opens with the beloved classic “Twelfth Night” performed outdoors, promising to enchant audiences once again. Inside, the Roe Green Theatre will present “Julius Caesar”, ensuring that fans of dramatic storytelling have a range of options.

In an exciting twist, the festival will also feature two contemporary plays: “Shakespeare in Love,” inspired by the Academy Award-winning film, and the world premiere of “Friends/Romans/Countrymen,” a new work by David Davalos, specially commissioned for the CSF. Both contemporary productions add a fresh flair to the lineup, making this festival a must-see.

Tickets are available NOW for those eager to secure their seats for the summer of 2026. Season passes can be purchased immediately, while single-show tickets will go on sale starting December 1, 2025, according to the Times-Call.

The renovations to the surrounding Hellems Building have transformed the theater experience, featuring expanded patio seating, an airy atrium lobby with a café, and enhanced accessibility for all patrons. These updates create a welcoming atmosphere, blending classic charm with modern amenities that are sure to delight attendees.

Having celebrated the genius of Shakespeare and other playwrights since 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival is poised to welcome theater enthusiasts from around the globe. The 2026 season promises not only to entertain but also to revive the vibrant cultural spirit of Boulder.

The festival’s directorial team is equally impressive. Kevin Rich will direct “Twelfth Night,” while Shelly Gaza will take the helm for “Julius Caesar.” Terri McMahon will oversee the adaptation of “Shakespeare in Love,” with music by Paddy Cunneen, and Tim Orr will direct Davalos’s “Friends/Romans/Countrymen.”

As excitement builds for this grand reopening, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival stands ready to enchant audiences with a blend of timeless tales and modern musings. Mark your calendars for June 7, 2026—the summer of Shakespeare will be here before you know it!

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling event approaches.