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.

All Performances are Open Captioned.

Don’t miss the grand finale of Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s 2026 Apprentice Program! The ARC Performances feature two dynamic productions showcasing the next generation of theater talent, live and indoors at Suffolk University’s beautiful Modern Theatre. Admission is free and open to all, with Pay-What-You-Can tickets available to support the Apprentice Program and ticketing service costs.

Troilus and Cressida directed by Michael Hisamoto 

Friday, July 31, 7:30pm

Sunday, Aug 2, 1pm

Wednesday, Aug 5, 2pm

The Merry Wives of Windsor directed by Bryn Boice

Saturday, Aug 1, 1pm

Sunday, Aug 2, 7:30pm 

Thursday, Aug 6, 2pm

Official Partner for Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Apprentice Training Program: Suffolk University