Shakespeare Under the Stars Returns to Irvine with New Swan Shakespeare Festival

Summer in Irvine brings sunshine, outdoor adventures, and one of Orange County’s most unique cultural experiences: the New Swan Shakespeare Festival. Returning to the University of California, Irvine campus from July through August, the acclaimed festival invites audiences to enjoy world-class theater in an intimate open-air setting unlike any other in Southern California.

Now celebrating its 15th season, the New Swan Shakespeare Festival has earned a reputation for presenting bold and imaginative interpretations of Shakespeare’s works inside its distinctive portable Elizabethan-style theater. Nestled beside Aldrich Park at UC Irvine, the venue creates an immersive experience where audiences are never far from the action.

This summer’s repertory season features two productions that showcase the range of Shakespeare’s storytelling—from timeless romance to laugh-out-loud comedy.

Romeo and Juliet

One of the most beloved stories ever written, Romeo and Juliet returns with a fresh new perspective under the direction of Rachael VanWormer. Set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl, this reimagined production explores love, family conflict, hope, and resilience during a time of hardship. Audiences can expect Shakespeare’s soaring poetry alongside a heartfelt interpretation that asks whether love can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances.

With its blend of romance, humor, and tragedy, Romeo and Juliet remains a powerful theatrical experience for both longtime Shakespeare fans and first-time audiences.

The Merry Wives of Windsor Cove

Looking for something lighter? The Merry Wives of Windsor Cove delivers plenty of laughs with an original musical adaptation by Anna Fitzgerald and Eli Simon, featuring music by Zachary Dietz.

Set in a vibrant 1950s Southern California surf town, this playful reimagining transforms Shakespeare’s classic comedy into a rockin’ seaside adventure filled with romantic mischief, sitcom-style antics, and a live skiffle band. The production combines Shakespearean wit with beach-town charm, creating an entertaining summer night out for audiences of all ages.

A Hidden Gem in Irvine

Praised by critics and theatergoers alike, New Swan Shakespeare Festival has been recognized as one of Southern California’s premier destinations for live theater. Its intimate venue allows audiences to experience performances up close, creating a connection between actors and audience that is rarely found in larger theaters.

Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or a cultural weekend in Irvine, the New Swan Shakespeare Festival offers a memorable way to spend a summer evening under the stars.

Performances of Romeo and Juliet 和 The Merry Wives of Windsor Cove run in rotating repertory through August 30. Be sure to reserve your tickets early and discover why this beloved Irvine tradition continues to captivate audiences year after year.