Free Shakespeare In The Parks Returns To Montana

Montana's popular summer theater tour brings free outdoor performances of classic plays to communities across the state.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:40pm

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A minimalist, abstract illustration featuring bold black silhouettes and high-contrast solid colors like red and white, conceptually representing the classic Shakespearean plays being performed outdoors in Montana's natural settings.Montana's beloved Shakespeare in the Parks tour returns with free outdoor productions that bring communities together under the Big Sky.Bozeman Today

The 54th season of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks is bringing free outdoor theater performances of The Merchant of Venice and Much Ado About Nothing to communities across the state this summer. The touring company will travel to both large and small towns, offering locals the chance to enjoy live Shakespearean productions under the Big Sky.

Why it matters

Shakespeare in the Parks has become a beloved summer tradition in Montana, providing free access to high-quality live theater performances that bring communities together. The tour's ability to reach rural and urban areas alike makes it an important cultural resource, especially for those who may not have the means or opportunity to attend professional theater productions.

The details

The Merchant of Venice will kick off the season with performances from June 10-13 in Bozeman at the MSU duck pond, followed by Much Ado About Nothing from June 17-20 at the same location. The full statewide tour schedule will bring the productions to towns and cities across Montana throughout the summer months.

  • The 54th season of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks runs from June to August 2026.
  • The Merchant of Venice will be performed June 10-13 in Bozeman.
  • Much Ado About Nothing will be performed June 17-20 in Bozeman.

The players

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks

A touring theater company that has been bringing free outdoor performances of classic Shakespearean plays to communities across Montana for over 50 years.

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What’s next

The full schedule of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks tour dates and locations will be released in the coming weeks, allowing residents across the state to plan ahead and find a performance near them.

The takeaway

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks continues to be a cherished summertime tradition that makes live theater accessible to communities of all sizes across the state, fostering a shared cultural experience and bringing people together under the Big Sky.