To go or not to go. . .to the Colorado Shakespeare Festival? The answer is easy because this event is one of Boulder’s most beloved traditions. Taking place from May 30th through August 2nd, it’s the quintessential way to support local arts, appreciate the works of one of history’s most famous poets, channel your inner theater kid, and turn an ordinary evening into a midsummer night’s dream. Here’s what you need to know:
Where Does the Festival Take Place?
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival returns to the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theater, a CU staple named for the first female professor to teach at a state university. Opened in 1939, it’s been the site of countless laughter, romance, and adventure, as well as endless journeys into the human imagination.
Seating for the festival begins 30 minutes before showtime (while the nearby, newly renovated Hellems Building opens 90 minutes prior).
What’s Playing?
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival features the following lineup:
- Twelfth Night (May 30th to August 2nd)
- Julius Caesar (June 13th to August 2nd)
- Shakespeare in Love (June 27th to August 1st)
- Friends/Romans/Countrymen (July 11th to August 1st)
Twelfth Night and Julius Caesar are well-known Shakespearean works, Shakespeare in Love is based on the 1998 Oscar-winning film, and Friends/Romans/Countrymen (by David Davalos) provides a humorous take on the creation of the Roman Empire. Check out the entire calendar here.
How Do I Get Tickets?
You can purchase single-play options or season tickets (which give you access to the festival, concerts, and other events). The plays take place every weekend and on several select weeknights.
Patrons may exchange tickets by phone or in person if they do so at least one business day before the event. Season ticket holders may exchange tickets without a fee, while single-ticket exchanges incur a $3 charge per person. Refunds are issued for any play canceled before intermission (due to weather or another unforeseen event).
Whether you are a longtime Shakespeare fan or just looking for a special summer night out in Boulder, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival delivers an experience that feels both timeless and local. From unforgettable performances under the stars to the energy of the CU campus in the summertime, it is easy to see why generations of Coloradans keep coming back year after year.