World premieres, classic tragedies, and riotous comedies collide at The Otto M. Budig Theater
CINCINNATI – Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) announced the lineup for their 2026–2027 Season tonight before the opening of their current production of Othello. “This season is about bold storytelling and theatrical exhilaration,” says Producing Artistic Director and CEO Brian Isaac Phillips. “From Shakespeare’s fiercest political dramas to side-splitting farce, from American history reclaimed to modern media satire, we are inviting audiences into stories that entertain, challenge, and ignite conversation.”
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary along with America 250, CSC presents FREE Shakespeare in the Park throughout the tri-state, and this summer’s selection is the beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing (July 14–September 6, 2026) directed by Rob Stimmel. Set just after the American Revolution, this lively take on Shakespeare’s sparkling romance follows Beatrice and Benedick as their witty war of words masks something far more tender. Audiences can expect laughter, heart, and a celebration of community under the open sky. The full tour schedule will be announced later this spring.
Pairing nicely with Much Ado About Nothing running concurrently in the parks and launching the summer inside the Otto M. Budig Theater is the World Premiere of Dogberry and Verges are Scared (July 10–25, 2026) by Michael Doherty and Will Mobley directed by Matthew Decker. Inspired by Much Ado About Nothing, this buddy comedy follows Messina’s most misguided watchmen as they stumble into saving the day. Armed with lanterns, loyalty, and very little logic, Dogberry and Verges take center stage in a brand-new adventure fueled by paranoia, pride, and plenty of nonsense. “This play has already taken Philadelphia Fringe by storm and is an Edinburgh Fringe hopeful. We are excited to give it its Cincinnati stop in this rolling World Premiere,” say Mr. Phillips.
Jane Austen fans will delight in the Regional Premiere of the The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged) (July 31–August 23, 2026) by Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast, and Meghan Winch, an affectionate and fast-paced parody condensing Austen’s beloved novels into one sparkling theatrical spectacle. With rapid-fire quick changes and Regency ridiculousness, this playful romp offers devoted fans clever nods while welcoming newcomers into Austen’s world. This production will be directed by Jenny Lavery in partnership with Merrimack Repertory Theater in Lowell, MA.
The fall begins with explosive urgency in Network (September 11–26, 2026), adapted for the stage by Lee Hall and based on the Academy Award winning film by Paddy Chayefsky, with the ensemble generously sponsored by Marcie and Jim Kinney. This production will be directed by Brian Isaac Phillips. Set in the 1970s as television tightens its grip on American culture, veteran anchorman Howard Beale unravels live on air. What begins as a breakdown becomes a broadcast phenomenon in a world where outrage sells and attention is currency. A sensation on Broadway and in London, Network receives its Regional Premiere here in Cincinnati.
The Halloween season brings back fang-filled fun with Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors (October 9–31, 2026) by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen in an encore production. The cast returns directed by Brian Isaac Phillips. “This was one of our most successful productions of all time and we loved welcoming in new folks at the Halloween season, so we are presenting it again!” says Mr. Phillips. This wildly irreverent romp reimagines Bram Stoker’s gothic classic with outrageous twists and nonstop laughs, making it the most wickedly fun way to celebrate the spooky season.
November ushers in festive mischief with Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor (November 13–December 5, 2026). Set in a sparkling winter wonderland, this holiday-infused production follows two clever women who outwit the boastful Sir John Falstaff in a comedy filled with disguises, delicious comeuppance, and seasonal cheer. Directed by CCM’s Brant Russell.
Back for its 20th Anniversary season of holiday hilarity is Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez (December 11–27, 2026) directed by Jeremy Dubin, the fast-paced mashup of Dickens, Dr. Seuss, and pop culture favorites that continues to be a cherished tradition for many seeking festive fun with a mischievous twist.
The new year begins with The African Company Presents Richard III (January 29–February 14, 2027) by Carlyle Brown directed by CSC Associate Artistic Director Candice Handy. This riveting true story follows an all-Black theatre troupe in 1821 determined to stage Shakespeare’s tragedy on their own terms while facing resistance from a rival white company. As tensions rise, performance itself becomes an act of defiance.
Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy returns in Hamlet (March 5–28, 2027), a gripping portrait of a prince caught between grief and action surrounded by mystery, revenge, and intrigue. This production is generously sponsored Michael L. Cioffi, Monteverdi Tuscany and Blank Rome LLP. Renowned for its unforgettable language and raw psychological power, Hamlet remains the ultimate theatrical event. This classic production will pull audiences into Hamlet’s fractured reality and refuse to let go.
Cincy Shakes continues their 40×40 initiative to bring the complete 40 play canon to the stage again with Coriolanus (April 16–May 2, 2027), directed by Courtney Lucien, Shakespeare’s fierce political tragedy about a celebrated warrior who knows how to conquer enemies but not how to win hearts. As unrest brews in Rome, personal pride collides with public power in this drama of sweeping intensity. “We haven’t produced this play since 2000 and are thrilled to bring in back to the stage once again,” says Mr. Phillips. The design is generously sponsored by Messer Construction.
The season concludes in spectacular chaos with the Regional Premiere of Peter Pan Goes Wrong (May 28–June 27, 2027) by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, with the design generously sponsored by KeyBank. Directed by Brian Isaac Phillips and featuring the cast from last season’s smash hit, The Play That Goes Wrong, this side-splitting comedy sends Neverland into full theatrical meltdown with flying mishaps, collapsing sets, and delightful disaster, ending the season on a high note of laughter and joy.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is delighted to invite patrons and enthusiasts to celebrate the Announcement of the 2026-2027 Season Announcement through a one-of-a-kind Online Auction. This annual event features insider experiences and exclusive items not available to the general public, including unique ticket packages for every show in the newly announced Mainstage Season. Taking place from March 6 to March 20, the 2026 Auction allows participants to browse, bid, and contribute to support CSC’s productions and programs. All proceeds directly benefit Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, serving 85,000 patrons and students across the tri-state area and beyond. Development Director, Sara Clarks says, “Bid early, bid often, make a donation, and share the excitement on social media by mentioning @cincyshakes. Your support ensures the continuation of CSC’s mission to bring Shakespeare and the Classics to life for all.”
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company offers flexible subscription packages for the 2026–2027 Season, including 4, 6, and 8 ticket options at a discount off single ticket prices. Subscriptions are currently on sale at cincyshakes.com or by calling the box office at 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1. Single tickets will be available beginning May 1, 2026. Discounted pricing, Access Tickets, and Rush options remain available to ensure theatre is accessible to all.
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The 2026-2027 Season is as follows:
FREE Shakespeare in the Park
Much Ado About Nothing
By: William Shakespeare
Dates: 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.
Scott Greer as Dogberry and Tony Lawton as Verges. Photo by Rebecca Gudelunas Photography.
Dogberry and Verges are Scared
By: Michael Doherty and Will Mobley
Dates: July 10 – 25, 2026
Experience Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing from the point of view of Messina’s most misguided watchmen, Dogberry and Verges. Armed with lanterns, loyalty, and very little logic, these unlikely heroes blunder their way to a happy conclusion for all. Off stage, Benedick and Beatrice spar their way toward the aisle, while our bumbling constables take center stage. As they patrol the periphery, they stumble into a brand-new adventure fueled by paranoia, pride, and plenty of nonsense. This World Premiere buddy comedy will warm your heart and leave you laughing long after the lanterns go out.
Jasimine Bouldin. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged)
By: Jessica Bedford, Kathryn MacMillan, Charlotte Northeast, and Meghan Winch
Dates: July 31 – August 23, 2026
Pride, prejudice, persuasion, and plenty of proposals collide in a theatrical tour of Austen’s greatest moments, served up with satire and silliness all before the tea has gone cold. With punchlines flying faster than a change of heart at a country ball, this affectionate parody condenses courtships, catastrophes, and carefully composed letters into a single, sparkling spectacle. Devoted fans will catch every clever nod, while newcomers can enjoy the romance, rivalry, and Regency ridiculousness without the multi-volume commitment.
Barry Mulholland as Max Schumacher. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
Network
Adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, based on the Paddy Chayefsky film
Dates: September 11 – 26, 2026
“I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take it anymore!” erupts across the airwaves in this immersive stage adaptation of the Academy Award winning film. Set in 1970s America, as television tightens its grip on American culture, veteran anchorman Howard Beale unravels live on air. What begins as a breakdown becomes a broadcast phenomenon. Soaring ratings transform him into an unlikely prophet for a network hungry for spectacle, in a world where outrage sells and attention is the ultimate currency. A sensation on Broadway and in London, Network blurs the line between news and entertainment with explosive consequences.
Chris Guthrie as Dracula. Photo by Mikki Schafffner.
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
By: Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen
Dates: October 9 – 31, 2026
Sink your teeth into a hilarious new take on the world’s most famous vampire! Filled with outrageous twists, playful innuendo, and more laughs than you can count, this delightful romp reimagines Bram Stoker’s gothic classic like you’ve never seen before. This dangerously debonair Dracula brings seductive chaos, proving that sometimes the Prince of Darkness can be as captivating as he is cunning. Join the hilarious hunt this Halloween season, where the only thing sharper than Dracula’s fangs are the gags that’ll leave you in stitches. Don’t miss the riotous ride that’s sure to leave you howling with laughter!
Matthew Lewis Johnson as Sir John Falstaff. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
The Merry Wives of Windsor
By: William Shakespeare
Dates: November 13 – December 5, 2026
Schemes, disguises, and delicious comeuppance abound in Shakespeare’s merriest misadventure. Set in a sparkling winter wonderland filled with plenty of good cheer, The Merry Wives of Windsor follows two clever women who outwit the devious and debauched Sir John Falstaff. This puffed-up tipsy holiday patriarch, who believes he belongs at the head of the feast, finds himself bundled, baffled, and brilliantly outplayed by wives who refuse to be fooled. Each clever trap lands with festive flair, proving that Windsor’s women really run the show.
Geoffrey Warren Barnes II. Photo by Mikki Schaffner
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)
By: Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez
Dates: December 11 – 27, 2026
CSC’s holiday smash hit Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) is back again for another season of holiday hilarity! What begins as another annual production of A Christmas Carol, soon devolves into a slightly irreverent (but undeniably adoring) look at all of your “Beloved Holiday Classics” including pop culture favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch, Rudolph, Charlie Brown and more! Add in topical references that always keep this annual tradition fresh and fun as we send up everything from Dickens to Dr. Seuss in an evening of high octane jollity and frivolity.
“ranney” as Papa Shakespeare. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
The African Company Presents Richard III
By: Carlyle Brown
Dates: January 29 – February 14, 2027
History and theatre collide in this riveting true story drawn from a remarkable chapter of the American stage. The African Company Presents Richard III tells the story of an all-Black theatre troupe in 1821 determined to stage Shakespeare’s tragedy on their own terms. As their bold production takes shape, a rival white theatre mounts its own Richard III just blocks away, threatening to undermine, overshadow, and outmaneuver them. What follows is a charged battle of artistry, ego, and survival, where the stage becomes a proving ground and performance itself becomes an act of defiance.
KP Powell as Hamlet. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
Hamlet
By: William Shakespeare
Dates: March 5 – 28, 2027
You know the skull. You know the question. But you haven’t truly experienced Hamlet until you’ve witnessed the mystery, revenge, and intrigue live on stage. This is Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy, a gripping portrait of a young prince caught between action and inaction, grief and rage, truth and deception. Renowned for its unforgettable language and raw psychological power, Hamlet remains the ultimate theatrical event. This classic production will pull audiences into Hamlet’s fractured reality and refuse to let go.
Grant Niezgodski as Coriolanus. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
Coriolanus
By: William Shakespeare
Dates: April 16 – May 2, 2027
Before there was Julius Caesar, there was Coriolanus — a legend on the battlefield, a disaster in the public square. Shakespeare’s fierce and primal tragedy follows the celebrated warrior who knows how to conquer enemies but not how to win hearts. Meanwhile in Rome, unrest brews as a famine-stricken underclass challenges the ruling elite. Enter Coriolanus, a celebrated hero whose contempt for politics may cost him everything. From thunderous victory to shattering downfall, this play delivers sweeping action sequences, political intrigue, and a theatrical experience that hits with the force of a battle drum.
Candice Handy as Annie. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
Peter Pan Goes Wrong
By: Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields
Dates: May 28 – June 27, 2027
There’s a problem in Neverland. Well… several problems. This production of Peter Pan is flying straight toward a fiasco. Tinker Bell takes a tumble. Wendy’s wandering eye wrecks rehearsals. The Lost Boys look more lost than ever. And Captain Hook’s high hopes are hauled under as he helms this hopelessly sinking ship. This side-splitting comedy follows the same well-meaning troupe from The Play That Goes Wrong, whose latest attempt at staging Peter Pan quickly collapses into chaos. No amount of clapping can keep this production from crashing, but you’ll be a believer by curtain call, applauding wildly and thinking happy thoughts all the way home.
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About Cincinnati Shakespeare Company:
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is a professional theatre company dedicated to bringing Shakespeare and the classics to life for all and is generously supported by The Linnemann Family Foundation; The Robert and Adele Schiff Family Foundation; Debby and Jim Mason, Cindy Bridgeland Crilley, and Maureen and John Bridgeland, in honor of Jim Bridgeland; The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation; ArtsWave; The Ohio Arts Council; The Shubert Foundation; and Lightborne. Since 2017, the theater has been located at the Otto M. Budig Theater, a brand-new facility in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati. CSC’s repertoire is composed of the works of William Shakespeare, literary adaptations, world premieres, and contemporary classics. CSC performs on a Small Professional Theatre contract with the Actors’ Equity Association. Cincinnati Shakespeare is a member of Theater Communications Group and the Shakespeare Theatre Association. Each year, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Education and Outreach Programs reach more than 30,000 young people and community members by meeting audiences where they are. This includes sharing programming in schools, parks, community centers, and hosting educational matinees of mainstage productions. In 2015, CSC was proud to become one of the first five theaters in the United States to “Complete the Canon” by producing all 38 plays by William Shakespeare. CSC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to be Cincinnati’s stage for the classics!
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