Described by The Denver Post’s Lisa Kennedy as “arguably the Big Kahuna of Drama,” the Denver Center Theatre Company prepares for William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Helmed by DCTC Artistic Director Coleman, this haunting psychological revenge thriller appears in the Wolf Theatre Sept. 13-Oct 6, 2024.

But Hamlet isn’t the only classic by the Bard to fill area stages. If you’re looking for more thees and thous, more sword fighting, and more tangled romantic overtures, check out these current and upcoming productions.

COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Since 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival has presented its summer productions in association with the University of Colorado Boulder. This summer, its lineup includes:

Macbeth
Now -Aug 11, 2024 • Roe Green Theatre, Boulder

A Shakespearean tragedy following the ambitious Scottish general, Macbeth, and his descent into tyranny and madness after receiving a prophecy that he will become king.

The Merry Wives of Windsor
Now -Aug 11, 2024 • Roe Green Theatre, Boulder

The amiable rogue Sir John Falstaff attempts to seduce two married women in the town of Windsor, only to face their clever and humorous retaliation.

FIREHOUSE THEATRE COMPANY

Shortly after John Hand built the Colorado Free University in 1987, he established a 82-seat theatre on the campus for performing arts classes and bourgeoning actors. Now, the company provides a collaborative environment where theatre artists can learn, explore and practice the art of theatre.

Othello 2024
June 29-July 28 • John Hand Theatre, Lowry

Adapted from William Shakespeare by Greg Sherman and Gregory Wolfe of Moonwork Theater Company, Othello 2024 tackles the centuries old issues that remain relevant today. Funded by SCFD.

DCPA EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Shakespeare in the Parking Lot. Photo by McLeod9 Creative

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts’ Education and Community Engagement team delivers in-school programs and on-site events to schools and community centers throughout the seven-county metro area. This fall, its popular Shakespeare in the Parking Lot returns.

Shakespeare in the Parking Lot
Dates, times and locations vary

The troupe performs adaptations of some of Shakespeare’s greatest works — Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream — in a parking lot on a truck. These free performances take place on weekends each spring and fall. Funded by SCFD.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE WILD

Shakespeare in the Wild

Now in its third season, Shakespeare in the Wild is a non-profit theatre company that offers free performances. Patrons are invited to bring a lawn chair, pack a picnic and grab a spot under the stars for the performance.

Twelfth Night
Weekends Aug 16-Sep 2
DeKoevend Park at Goodson Rec Center, 6315 S. University Blvd., Centennial

A shipwrecked Viola disguises herself as a man and becomes entangled in a web of romantic confusion and comic antics in the fictional kingdom of Illyria.