Free Shakespeare on Boston Common 2026: 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream'

Young lovers escape to a wonderland of freedom and desire, drawn together and torn apart by forces they can’t quite control in Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s 30th Anniversary production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare’s classic comedy is transported to a neon-lit festival escape, where rules dissolve and self-expression blossoms. The air pulses with music, mystery, and mischief as Puck (The Skivvies’ Nick Cearley) and his fairy band move like shadowy DJs of fate, remixing hearts with a single drop of enchanted nectar. Every corner of the festival grounds hums with temptation, transformation, and the electric thrill of love and community. Directed by CSC Founding Artistic Director Steven Maler, this Free Shakespeare on the Common production runs July 22 through August 9, 2026, at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common, presented in partnership with the City of Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston Parks and Recreation, and the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture. Schedule:<ul><li>Wednesday, July 22 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Thursday, July 23 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Friday, July 24 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Saturday, July 25 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Sunday, July 26 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Tuesday, July 28 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Wednesday, July 29 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Thursday, July 30 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Friday, July 31 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Saturday, August 1 at 8:00 PM – ASL Interpreted</li><li>Sunday, August 2 at 1:30 PM* – Audio Described with Tactile Tour</li><li>Sunday, August 2 at 8:00 PM – ASL Interpreted and Audio Described with Tactile Tour</li><li>Tuesday, August 4 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Wednesday, August 5 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Thursday, August 6 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Friday, August 7 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Saturday, August 8 at 8:00 PM</li><li>Sunday, August 9 at 1:30 PM*</li><li>Sunday, August 9 at 8:00 PM</li></ul>

Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common

Nathaly

Mishi

Brandon

Lynn

Rachel

Gerbie 

Deborah

Lauren

Anne

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Free Shakespeare on Boston Common 2026: 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream'

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