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William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing FREE Shakespeare in the Park 2026
July 14 - September 6, 2026
The war for America’s independence has just been declared in this production set in 1776, but the battle of the sexes has just begun. Much Ado About Nothing follows two sparring skeptics, Beatrice and Benedick, whose witty war of words masks something far more tender. Packed with mistaken identities, overheard conversations, and joyful chaos, this beloved classic is one of Shakespeare’s most enduring comedies. Bring a blanket, bring a friend, and enjoy a lively, laughter-filled evening of FREE Shakespeare in the Park.
Admission to Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare in the Park Tour is free and open to the public. There are no ticket or RSVPs required and all performances are general admission. For questions regarding a specific location's policies on outside food and drink, accessibility, etc. please contact the venue directly or reach out to our Box Office for assistance.
2026 Schedule to be Posted in May 2026
Tickets & Admission
Admission is completely free and open to the public—no fees, no reservations, just great, FREE theatre!
Nope! All performances are general admission. Just show up, grab a spot, and enjoy the show.
We post all weather or venue updates on our Facebook and Instagram channels as soon as we can. Thank you for your patience and flexibility!
Plan Your Visit
We recommend arriving 30-40 minutes before the show to find parking, set up your lawn chair or blanket, and get settled.
Every venue will be a little bit different but it is usually a good idea to bring your own seating. Feel free to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, water, bug spray, and a light jacket.
We will be in 40 different venues and each has a different parking arrangement but most parks offer free on‑site parking, though spaces can be limited. Carpooling, biking, or arriving early is usually encouraged.
Accessibility & Special Services
Yes! Performances with these services will be clearly noted in our online schedule. For questions, just reach out.
Our productions are family‑friendly! They last approximately 2 hours including an intermission.
Contact & More Info
Each park has its own policies for food, alcohol, seating, and accessibility. For details, please reach out directly to that park or venue.
Our Box Office team is here Monday–Friday, 12 PM–5 PM. Call (513) 381‑2273 or email boxoffice@cincyshakes.com. We look forward to seeing you in the park!
FREE Shakespeare in the Park is made possible through the generous support of companies, foundations, and donors throughout the tri-state and beyond. If you would like to make a gift in support of the program, please visit the Park Fund page to donate online or call 513.381.2273 to donate by phone.
Explore the impact this program has on the community:
73% have more pride in their community because of the park tour.
97% feel their neighborhoods are positively impacted through this program.
86% of audiences report that their community needs more arts opportunities
89% of audiences report that this is the easiest and most accessible way to attend live theatre
This production of Much Ado About Nothing is a part ofAmerica 250, a celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
This program is sponsored by our Shakespeare Season Sponsors: The Linnemann Family Foundation. Additional support comes from the Western & Southern Financial Group, ArtsWave, and generous donors to the FREE Shakespeare in the Park Fund.
Eva Olivia Catanzariti
Beatrice
