Free Shakespeare In The Park Brings ‘Romeo & Juliet’ Back To The Delacorte For The First Time In 19 Years — Plus More Summer 2026 Season Programming

Though our minds are buzzing with thoughts of turkey, stuffing, and post-dinner naps, The Public Theater is already looking ahead to next summer–specifically one of NYC’s most beloved free events: Shakespeare in the Park. The 2026 Shakespeare for the City season has been announced, and for its 63rd year, productions will include *Romeo and Juliet* and *The Winter’s Tale.* Shakespeare for the City is The Public Theater’s citywide, summer-long celebration of free theater, bringing the magic of performance to every corner of New York. The Public’s Executive Director Patrick Willingham stated: > ‘Shakespeare for the City’ represents our bold legacy and vision of cultural and civic life for the people of this city. Last summer...more than 80,000 New Yorkers across all five boroughs found their place together, affirming that The Public’s Free Shakespeare in the Park, Public Works, Mobile Unit, and Public Forum are not just programs—they are a declaration of interdependence, a reassertion that culture belongs to everyone. Shakespeare for the City’s lineup includes Free Shakespeare in the Park, a Public Works production, and the Mobile Unit, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Even more–every show is completely free and open to all! Summer 2026 will be an exciting season as Saheem Ali will bring Shakespeare’s beloved romance ***Romeo and Juliet* back to The Delacorte for the first time in nearly two decades!** Joining the romance is Shakespeare’s *The Winter’s Tale*. Artistic Director Oskar Eustis stated: > For the first time in 19 years, Saheem Ali brings Shakespeare’s beloved romance *Romeo and Juliet* back to The Delacorte. The most famous love story of all time makes a powerful case that love can heal even the most divided communities. And Dan Sullivan returns with Shakespeare’s late masterpiece of faith and resurrection, *The Winter’s Tale*. Beyond the productions, the summer 2026 season will also feature the explosive return of Public Forum. Under the leadership of Alexa Smith and Jeremy McCarter, The Delacorte will welcome more audiences than ever for a thrilling blend of performance, conversation, and culture. 2026 Shakespeare for the City Programming ----------------------------------------- 2026 Shakespeare for the City programming is as follows: ### Mobile Unit (begins May 2026) * *🎭 As You Like It* * 📍 Across all five boroughs * 🗓️ Begins May 2026 ### Free Shakespeare in the Park * *🎭 Romeo and Juliet +* *The Winter’s Tale* * 📍 The Delacorte Theater * 🗓️ May 2026 (*Romeo and Juliet*) | July 2026 (*The Winter’s Tale*) ### Public Works * *🎭* TBD * 📍The Delacorte Theater * 🗓️ August 2026 Rebecca O’Connell, NYC Metro Market President of Citizens, stated: > Shakespeare for the City is more than a tradition—it’s an iconic staple that reflects the heartbeat and vibrant spirit of New York. Source: https://secretnyc.co/shakespeare-for-the-city-announces-2026-season/