The 2024-2025 Season includes three world premieres- including a new musical- alongside celebrated classics offering a season that blends tradition with innovation and collaboration
CINCINNATI (March 6, 2024)– Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) is pleased to announce the titles of their 2024-2025 Season. This season showcases a thrilling blend of classic and contemporary theatre. It is marked by world premieres, regional debuts, and fresh international collaborations underscoring the company’s commitment to present World Class Theater in Cincinnati and beyond!
To kick off the season, CSC is thrilled to announce the world premiere of “Kindred Spirits” by Alice Scovell, based on the characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit,” running from August 2-18, 2024. This captivating sequel to Noël Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” promises to enchant audiences with a blend of romance, jealousy, and spectral hilarity. Scovell, known for her successful off-Broadway hit “The Rewards of Being Frank” which debuted at Cincinnati Shakespeare in 2023, masterfully revives Coward’s beloved characters, introducing audiences to both familiar faces and intriguing new spirits. Producing Artistic Director, Brian Isaac Phillips expressed his excitement, “We are thrilled to bring the work of Alice Scovell to our stage once again. Her talent in continuing the stories of beloved classic plays like ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ and now ‘Blithe Spirit’ is a favorite of our audience. ‘Kindred Spirits’ is the perfect way to kick off our season and is a must-see for our subscribers and patrons.” This production, included in the subscription package, is a testament to the Company’s commitment to presenting fresh, innovative takes on classic stories, promising a delightful experience for theatergoers this summer.
In September, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is set to present “Fat Ham” by James Ijames, from September 6-22, 2024. This innovative reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” infuses the classic tale with a contemporary flair. Described by the New York Times as “a hilarious yet profound tragedy smothered in comedy,” this Pulitzer Prize winning and Tony nominated play serves up a feast of drama, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and power dynamics. Directed by Darnell Pierre Benjamin, a frequent performer at Cincinnati Shakespeare and the director of the 2021 production of “Romeo and Juliet,” “Fat Ham” promises to reignite the infamous tale of “Hamlet” with a modern twist. This fresh and spicy reinterpretation of a Shakespearean masterpiece is an exciting addition to the Company’s season, offering a unique and thought-provoking theatrical experience. “Fat Ham” is generously sponsored by Fifth Third Bank and by President H. James Williams and First Lady Carole Campbell Williams of Mount St. Joseph University.
This Halloween season, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is proud to present “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” by David Catlin, from October 9- November 2, 2024. This production, presented in partnership with Merrimack Repertory Theatre in Lowell, MA, follows the successful 2023 collaboration on the World Premiere of Patrick Hamilton’s “Gaslight” in a new version for the stage by Steven Dietz. “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” premiered at Lookingglass Theatre Company in Chicago in May of 2019, and offers a new spin on the gothic tale, exploring the journey of Victor Frankenstein’s creation, a creature shunned and feared for its inhumanity. The play delves deep into themes of creation, rejection, and the nature of humanity, asking the audience who the real monster is – the creature or its creator. Producing Artistic Director Brian Isaac Phillips leads this spine-tingling adaptation perfect for the Halloween season that blurs the lines between horror and science fiction. Brian expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “It is wonderful to collaborate with the talented folks at Merrimack Rep again. Collaborations like these are vital now more than ever, and we are happy to have found such a great partner theater in MRT.” After its run in Cincinnati, “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” will move to Merrimack Repertory Theatre near Boston, marking another successful regional transfer of work for CSC.
This holiday season, CSC is delighted to offer two joyous productions, perfect for families, dates, and friends looking for festive entertainment. First up, from November 15- December 7, 2024, is William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” This delightful comedy of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements is a family-friendly spectacle that promises laughter and joy for all. With its vibrant cast of characters, the play is a merry dance of romance, comedy, and playful deception. Presented in classic Elizabethan style, “Twelfth Night” is a fun and laugh-filled option for those seeking a joyful night out. This production will be co-directed by Brian Isaac Phillips and Jeremy Dubin.
In CSC’s first international collaboration, this production is presented in partnership with the Prague Shakespeare Company (PSC), the professional English language theatre of the Czech Republic, celebrating its 17th year in 2024. They present professional theatre productions, workshops, classes, lectures and other theatrical events in the Czech Republic by a diverse multinational ensemble of professional theatre artists. Guy Roberts is the Founder and Artistic Director of Prague Shakespeare Company. He has produced, directed and acted in over 300 productions and his work has been experienced onstage in the United States, Czech Republic, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Poland, Qatar, Egypt, and India. Brian said, “The collaboration with PSC adds an exciting dimension to the play, and following its run in Cincinnati, “Twelfth Night” will travel to Prague for additional performances, marking CSC’s first international collaboration!”
Following “Twelfth Night,” from December 13 to 29, 2024, CSC brings back its holiday smash hit, “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez, again directed by Jeremy Dubin. 
This production begins as a traditional rendition of “A Christmas Carol” but quickly evolves into a slightly irreverent look at all of our favorite “Beloved Holiday Classics,” including pop culture favorites like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Rudolph,” “Charlie Brown,” and more. This show, which has been a CSC staple for 19 seasons, consistently breaks box office records, attracting new and returning audiences alike. Offering a night of holiday hilarity, this show is best enjoyed by adults and families with older teens. It presents a slightly irreverent and humorous take on holiday classics, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional holiday fare. Please note, it may not be suitable for younger audiences who still cherish the traditional beliefs around Santa Claus. Both “Twelfth Night” and “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” encapsulate the spirit of the holiday season at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, offering diverse and entertaining options for all.
Kicking off 2025, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is set to enthrall audiences with the world premiere of “A Room in the Castle,” based on the women of “Hamlet,” by Lauren Gunderson. It is a retelling of “Hamlet” from the perspectives of Ophelia and Gertrude. Commissioned by CSC back in 2020 and penned by the acclaimed Lauren Gunderson, this production promises a fresh and compelling narrative on a classic play. Lauren says, “I’m terrifically excited to finally bring ‘A Room in the Castle’ to Cincy Shakes. Since they boldly commissioned the idea years ago, I’ve been filled with gratitude and eagerness to tell this untold part of the most iconic Shakespearean play, and bring the women of ‘Hamlet’ out from the shadows and into their own truths. What a gift to be trusted, commissioned and – now – produced at Cincinnati Shakespeare!” Lauren has been one of the most produced playwrights in America since 2015. She is a two-time winner of the Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award, the winner of the Lanford Wilson Award, and a finalist for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. Running from January 24- February 9, 2025, “A Room in the Castle” intertwines themes of love, intrigue, and power, exploring the emotional journey and resilience of its central female characters amidst the chaos of the Danish court. This groundbreaking production, symbolizing a significant collaborative effort, is produced in partnership with the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington D.C. Following its premiere in Cincinnati, the play will move to Washington D.C., a milestone marking CSC’s first expansion into the D.C. area. “A Room in the Castle” challenges audiences to ponder whether Ophelia and Gertrude’s fates will align with Shakespeare’s original or break free towards a path of liberation, showcasing CSC’s dedication to innovative storytelling and diverse narratives of classic Shakespeare plays.
In the spring of 2025, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company brings to the stage two Shakespeare classics. First up is “Macbeth,” running from February 28 – March 23, 2025. This contemporary production delves deep into the themes of ambition and political intrigue. This production will be directed by Christopher V. Edwards who also led a powerful and modern “Othello” at CSC in the Debut season of The Otto M. Budig Theater and a moving production of August Wilson’s “Fences” at CSC in 2019. He is currently the Artistic Director of Actors’ Shakespeare Project in Boston and has worked as a director and actor in London’s West End, Off-Broadway, Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Cleveland Playhouse, The NY Hip-Hop Theatre Festival, Utah Shakespeare Festival, SOHO Rep, Penumbra Theater, PA Shakes, Shakespeare and Company and Guthrie Theatre to name a few. This modern tale of mayhem and madness, where reality and the supernatural blur, will be a gripping theatrical experience.
Following “Macbeth,” Cincinnati Shakespeare Company presents “The Tempest” 
from April 11- May 4, 2025. Set on an ecologically fragile isle, the play will transport audiences to a world where enchantment and reality intertwine. “The Tempest” will also be a green, low environmental impact production, where sustainability meets Shakespeare in a harmonious blend of environmental responsibility and theatrical mastery. This production will directed by CSC’s Candice Handy, known for her recent direction at CSC of James Baldwin’s “The Amen Corner” in 2024 and August Wilson’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” in 2021. Audiences will be treated to a romantic tale filled with magic, monsters, and redemption presented in a sustainable way!
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024-2025 season closes with the highly anticipated world premiere of the season, “Mrs. Dalloway,” A New Musical. This vibrant musical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel, featuring book, music, and lyrics by Lindsey Augusta Mercer, will run from May 23- June 15, 2025. Set in 1923, amidst the aftermath of a pandemic and WWI, the musical follows Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for the most extravagant party London has ever seen. As she navigates last-minute preparations and unexpected reunions, Clarissa confronts her past, rekindling connections and awakening long-suppressed desires. This world premiere, commissioned by CSC in 2020, is a queer-forward exploration of Woolf’s novel, examining the unspoken emotions and paths untaken in life. The production boasts a neo-golden age score with contemporary folk-pop influences. Writer and composer Lindsey Augusta Mercer says, “My creative lens on ‘Mrs. Dalloway’ is deeply rooted in the relationships, in particular that of Clarissa and Sally, whose love is a fundamental theme that is frequently discounted. Though the themes in the novel feel so timeless and could almost be set in any period, it was important to me to preserve the time and place of the novel within the musical adaptation as a way to reimagine an ending for our queer characters. I wanted to paint a deeply romantic and heartfelt new memory of what it could have been like.” This production will be directed by CSC’s Sara Clark who recently directed the enchanting “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in 2023 and popular “Pride and Prejudice” in 2020 and 2022 at CSC. Don’t miss this innovative musical adaptation that brings a fresh perspective to a timeless story and concludes CSC’s 2024-2025 Season!
An additional highlight of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024-2025 season is the unofficially titled “PROJECTHamlet.” This unique project brings Shakespeare’s renowned tragedy “Hamlet” to life in three distinct and innovative ways. First, audiences will enjoy a contemporary production of “Hamlet” as the FREE Shakespeare in the Park show, making Shakespeare’s work accessible to all. Following this, “Fat Ham” offers a modern twist on the tale, a Broadway and Pulitzer Prize-winning sensation that reimagines the story in a different world. Lastly, “A Room in the Castle,” a world premiere commissioned by CSC, tells the story from the perspective of the women in “Hamlet.” Mr. Phillips says he hopes “audiences experience all three productions, as they each provide new insights into the Danish prince and his family’s story and showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of Shakespeare’s work.”
ONLINE AUCTION:
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is also thrilled to invite patrons and enthusiasts to join in the celebration of its 2024-2025 Season Announcement through its one-of-a-kind Online Auction. The annual event always promises an array of insider experiences and exclusive items that are not available to the general public, including unique ticket packages for every show in the newly announced 2024-2025 Mainstage Season. The 2024 Auction will take place from March 6 to March 20, allowing participants to browse, bid, and contribute to support CSC’s productions and programs. All proceeds from the auction will directly benefit Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, serving 85,000 patrons and students across the tri-state 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 fantastic value to its audiences with flexible subscription packages for the 2024-2025 Season. These subscriptions include a range of options of packages with 4, 6, or 8 tickets, available at a generous 25% discount off single ticket prices. These tickets can be used in any combination across all eight mainstage performances excluding “Every Christmas Story.” All subscriptions are currently on sale and can be purchased through the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company website at cincyshakes.com or by calling the box office at 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1.
Single tickets for all CSC shows will be available starting May 1, 2024. However, becoming a Subscriber is the recommended way to secure the best prices and priority seating now. Single ticket prices for individual shows range from $12-$76. CSC also continues to offer discounted tickets for students, seniors, local residents, and community partners. The Access ticket program, launched in 2020, offers $14 tickets in the Upper Gallery of CSC’s mainstage, purchasable in advance online or via the box office. Additionally, CSC’s Rush Ticket program offers any unreserved tickets for $12, starting one hour before each performance available to all. These rush tickets are subject to availability and location within the theater. Payment methods including Visa, Discover, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted, and ticketing fees apply. For ticket purchases or more information, contact the CSC Box Office at 513-381-BARD (2273) ext. 1, or visit cincyshakes.com.
Pictured Above:
- Beasley as Hamlet in Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s 2024 FREE Shakespeare in the Park tour of William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” playing July 12 – September 1, 2024 in local parks.
- Kelly Mengelkoch in the world premiere of “Kindred Spirits” by Alice Scovell, based on characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” playing August 2 – 18, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
- Candice Handy as Maria in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” playing November 15 – December 7, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
- Geoffrey Warren Barnes II in “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez playing December 13 – 29, 2024 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
- Hayley Guthrie as Lady Macbeth in William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” playing February 28 – March 23, 2025 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
- Hannah Gregory as Ariel in William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” playing April 11 – May 2025 at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company.
All Photos by Mikki Schaffner.
Season Designs by Lightborne.
William Shakespeare’s
Hamlet
FREE Shakespeare in the Park 2024
July 12-September 1, 2024
While grappling with the grief of his father’s murder, Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, is thrust into a web of deceit, betrayal, and impending war. Not only has his mother married his father’s brother, but his uncle is the murderer. This summer, become immersed in the intrigue of Shakespeare’s Hamlet— a riveting blend of passion, ghosts, and royal drama that promises to heat up your summer nights with gripping intensity.
Kindred Spirits
A New Play by Alice Scovell
Based on the characters and story of Noёl Coward’s “Blithe Spirit”
August 2-18, 2024
In this World Premiere sequel to Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit, the whimsical chaos of the spirit world collides, once again, with the realm of the living. Haunted by his past loves (literally), Charles Condomine finds it challenging to finish his latest book and pursue a beguiling love interest. Romance, jealousy, and unexpected reunions combine for a spirited, comedic romp, filled with witty repartee and otherworldly surprises. In Kindred Spirits, Alice Scovell–the playwright behind the Oscar Wilde sequel The Rewards of Being Frank–brings back to life many of Coward’s beloved characters, and introduces a few new, memorable ones.
Fat Ham
by James Ijames
September 6-22, 2024
Weeks after his father’s funeral, Juicy, a queer Black man, finds himself at a barbeque with his family and friends. But here’s the rub: the barbeque is a wedding reception for his mother and his uncle. When the ghost of Juicy’s father appears like a specter out of the smoke, demanding vengeance for his murder, Juicy learns revenge is a dish best served “char-cold.” This sweet and spicy reimaging of Shakespeare’s Hamlet serves up a feast of drama, with loyalty, identity, and power dynamics on the menu in what the New York Times calls “a hilarious yet profound tragedy smothered in comedy.”
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
By David Catlin
October 11-November 2, 2024
On a dark and stormy night, a group of friends challenge each other to tell a frightful tale and thus Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is born. Cast away by his creator, Victor Frankenstein’s rejected creature is thrust into a world that recoils in terror, disgusted by his inhumanity. A new spin on the gothic tale from the mother of science fiction promises to be a spine-tingling encounter with one of literature’s most iconic monsters. Ideal for the Halloween season, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein will ask the question: who is the real monster, creature or creator?
William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
November 15-December 7, 2024
Shakespeare’s delightful comedy of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements, is a family-friendly spectacle that promises laughter and joy for all. Set in the whimsical land of Illyria, the play follows the adventures of Viola, who, disguised as a man, finds herself at the heart of a hilarious series of misunderstandings and mishaps. With a colorful cast of characters, the play is a merry dance of romance, comedy, and playful deception perfect for audiences of all ages.
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)*
by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez
December 13-29, 2024
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 look at all of our favorite “Beloved Holiday Classics” including pop culture favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, 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. *Not part of the mainstage subscription package.
A Room in the Castle
Based on the women of Hamlet
By Lauren M. Gunderson
January 24-February 9, 2025
In this parallel retelling of Hamlet from Ophelia and Gertrude’s perspectives, the focus shifts to their emotional journey amidst the chaos of the Danish court. Ophelia’s narrative begins with the blossoming of a secret romance with Hamlet, filled with promise and youthful passion. As the court’s intrigue deepens, Ophelia and Gertrude finds themselves ensnared in a web of political machinations and familial expectations, struggling to maintain power and agency. Will their ending be a confirmation of Shakespeare’s original or a liberation from it? Find out in the World Premiere of Lauren Gunderson’s A Room in the Castle.
William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
February 28-March 23, 2025
In this contemporary production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, ambition and political intrigue take center stage. When three witches foretell that Macbeth will ascend to the Scottish throne, he and his cunning wife craft a ruthless plot to make it so. Their journey into darkness is a violent portrayal of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Toil and trouble boil over in this timeless tale of mayhem and madness, reimagined for today, where the lines between reality and the supernatural blur.Top of Form
William Shakespeare’s The Tempest
April 11-May 4, 2025
Marooned on an enchanting, yet ecologically fragile island, the exiled sorcerer Prospero waits, consumed by thoughts of revenge. So when fate places all his old enemies within his reach, tempests (both literal and metaphorical) stir. As the climate shifts, so do allegiances, while young love takes root in this unpredictable environment. This romantic tale, replete with magic and monsters, love and liquor, and retribution and redemption is a voyage not to be missed.
Mrs. Dalloway: A New Musical
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Lindsey Augusta Mercer
Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s Novel
May 23-June 15, 2025
Mrs. Dalloway hosts tonight! You’re invited to the soiree of the century: a new musical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel. It is 1923 and the pandemic and WWI have ravaged Europe, but Clarissa Dalloway is determined to throw the greatest party London has ever seen. While she buys the flowers and makes last minute preparations, serendipitous reunions force her to confront the past. As she dismantles the façade she tirelessly upholds, she rekindles connections with friends and lovers, awakening her inner desires for the words she never spoke and the paths of love she never took. Don’t miss this World Premiere of Virginia Woolf’s iconic introspective novel reimagined for the stage as a musical with a sweeping neo-golden age score underpinned with a contemporary folk pop
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 