Young love blooms brightly in the gardens of Verona, but it cannot escape the changing of the seasons. Directed by CSC’s Associate Artistic Director, Bryn Boice, this fresh and imaginative production sets Shakespeare’s heartfelt tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, inside Friar Laurence’s greenhouse, where young love and peril grow side by side. 

CSC’s annual Stage2 performances of Shakespeare’s most popular plays are designed for middle and high school audiences. Students just discovering Shakespeare  — and die-hard fans, as well  — won’t want to miss this tragically beautiful take on one of The Bard’s most famous works.

Stage2: Romeo and Juliet

Strand Theatre Dorchester

Young lovers escape to a wonderland of freedom and desire, drawn together and torn apart by forces they can’t quite control in Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s 30th Anniversary production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare’s classic comedy is transported to a neon-lit festival escape, where rules dissolve and self-expression blossoms.  

The air pulses with music, mystery, and mischief as Puck (The Skivvies’ Nick Cearley) and his fairy band move like shadowy DJs of fate, remixing hearts with a single drop of enchanted nectar. Every corner of the festival grounds hums with temptation, transformation, and the electric thrill of love and community.

Directed by CSC Founding Artistic Director Steven Maler, this Free Shakespeare on the Common production runs July 22 through August 9, 2026, at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common, presented in partnership with the City of Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston Parks and Recreation, and the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture.

Alex Leondedis

Events

Upcoming events

Jul 22 - Aug 9, 2026

A Midsummer Night’s Dream · Commonwealth Shakespeare Company

Past events

21 - 30 May, 2026

Stage2: Romeo and Juliet · Commonwealth Shakespeare Company

Future and recently performed repertoire

Lord Capulet in Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare

Commonwealth Shakespeare Company

Snug in A Midsummer Night's Dream by Shakespeare

Commonwealth Shakespeare Company

About

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