This beloved summer tradition has brought the Bard to Manhattan’s Central Park for more than 50 years. Presented by The Public Theater, the free productions of Shakespeare in the Park are undoubtedly one of the most popular tickets of the summer, proposing a transport journey from under the stars of Central Park to the famous worlds of Shakespeare. Read everything you need to know to get the most out of the 2016 season of Shakespeare in the Park below.
What productions and actors are presented for 2016?
There will be three plays for the 2016 summer season . The Taming of the Shrew began, as directed by Phyllida Lloyd, and starring Katherina (played by Olivier Nominee Cush Jumbo) and Petruchio (played by Tony and Olivier winner Janet McTeer). As The Public Theater describes, this is “Shakespeare’s original comedy showing how far men will go for his legacy, what women will do to free themselves, and the outrageous things we all do for the human heart.”
Next up is Troilus and Cressida , which are rarely produced, directed by Tony-winning director Daniel Sullivan. The producers give this synopsis: “Warriors and lovers alike play hard in this surprisingly modern epic about the hot blood, hot thoughts, and hot deeds of the ancient Greeks.”
There will also be a short performance of a musical adaptation of Twelfth Night, directed by Kwame Kwei-Armah with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub; is being presented by Public Works.
When is Shakespeare in the Park scheduled in 2016?
The domestication of the shrew took place from May 24 to June 26; Troilo y Crésida is scheduled from July 19 to August 15; and the Twelfth Night runs from September 2 to 5. Performances generally take place every day except Mondays during their races, at 8 pm The theater opens approximately 30 minutes before show time.
Where is Shakespeare celebrated in the park?
Shows are held at the Delacorte Open Air Theater in Central Park, with Belvedere Castle as the backdrop. The closest entrance to the park is at 81st Street and Central Park West.
How can I get tickets to Shakespeare in the Park?
Getting tickets to Shakespeare in the Park takes perseverance and luck. There are several ways to get free tickets, which are issued the same day as the event and are limited to two tickets per customer. Please note that the seating locations are randomly distributed. Click on the links below for all official ticket sales details for The Public Theater:
- Lineup at the Delacorte Theater – The traditional way to grab seats, tickets are distributed at noon on each performance day; Please note that the lines can be very long (people have been known to start lining up at 6am, when the park gates officially open).
- Virtual Ticket Lottery – The easiest way to get seats, although there are no guarantees, is through this online random lottery, managed by the TodayTix app.
- Downtown Astor Place Distribution Lottery – A limited number of same-day coupons are also distributed downtown at The Public Theater (425 Lafayette St. at Astor Pl.).
- In Districts: On select dates, a limited number of same-day performance vouchers will be distributed at locations in all five districts.
- Become a Summer Supporter – Make a $ 200 donation to Shakespeare in the Park and The Public Theater, and get a guaranteed seat to the production of your choice.
- Waiting – A long shot, but there is a waiting line starting at 6pm at the Delacorte Theater for any unclaimed tickets (note that there is a limit of one per person).
Will there be bathrooms in the theater?
Yes, there is a bathroom at the Delacorte Theater, but the lines can be quite long; Go before you come to avoid the hassle.
Will there be food and drink for sale at the theater?
Yes, there are light snacks and drinks such as hot dogs, pretzels, ice cream, beer, and lemonade for sale. You can also bring your own food and drinks (as long as everything fits under your seat), although glass containers are prohibited.
