Free Shakespeare In The Parks Returns To Montana

The touring company is bringing two classics to towns across the state this summer.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:11am

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus scene of people gathered in a park at dusk, with soft pools of warm light creating a dreamlike, atmospheric mood that evokes the experience of attending a live outdoor theater performance.The annual Shakespeare in the Parks tour brings the Bard's timeless works to communities across Montana, fostering a sense of shared cultural experience under the open sky.Bozeman Today

Montana's Shakespeare in the Parks tour is back for its 54th season, offering free outdoor performances of The Merchant of Venice and Much Ado About Nothing at venues across the state. The tour travels to both big cities and small towns, making live theater accessible to communities that might not otherwise have the opportunity to see a professional production.

Why it matters

Shakespeare in the Parks is a beloved Montana tradition that brings people together for free, community-focused theater experiences under the Big Sky. The tour's accessibility and focus on reaching rural areas make it an important cultural event that strengthens connections within local communities.

The details

The Merchant of Venice will be performed 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 touring company then travels to cities and towns across Montana, bringing the productions to audiences statewide.

  • The Merchant of Venice runs June 10-13, 2026.
  • Much Ado About Nothing runs June 17-20, 2026.

The players

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks

A touring theater company that has been bringing free outdoor performances of Shakespeare's works to communities across Montana for over 50 years.

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What’s next

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

The takeaway

Shakespeare in the Parks is a cherished Montana tradition that makes live, professional theater accessible to communities of all sizes, strengthening local connections and providing free, family-friendly entertainment under the Big Sky.