**Top Summer Festival Plays You Won’t Want to Miss!**
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, theater lovers are gearing up for the summer festival season. From classic Shakespearean plays to cutting-edge new works, there is something for everyone to enjoy at these outdoor and indoor festivals. Here are some of the top summer festival plays you won’t want to miss this year.
**Shakespeare in the Park**
One of the highlights of the summer festival season is Shakespeare in the Park. These outdoor productions bring the works of the Bard to life in beautiful natural settings, allowing audiences to experience the magic of his plays in a whole new way. From the tragedy of “Hamlet” to the comedy of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” there is something for everyone to enjoy at these popular festivals.
One of the most anticipated Shakespeare in the Park productions this summer is “Romeo and Juliet” at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. Directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, this production promises to be a fresh and exciting take on the classic love story. With a talented cast and stunning set design, this is sure to be a highlight of the summer festival season.
**New Works and Emerging Playwrights**
In addition to the classics, many summer festivals also showcase new works by emerging playwrights. These exciting productions offer audiences a chance to see cutting-edge theater and support up-and-coming talent. From thought-provoking dramas to hilarious comedies, there is no shortage of new works to enjoy at these festivals.
One play to watch out for this summer is “The Wolves” by Sarah DeLappe. This Pulitzer Prize finalist follows a girls’ indoor soccer team as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and competition. With its sharp dialogue and powerful performances, this play is sure to be a standout at festivals across the country.
**Regional Repertories and Bucolic Settings**
Many summer festivals take place in picturesque settings, such as vineyards, parks, and historic sites. These regional repertories offer a unique opportunity to experience theater in a more intimate and immersive way. From classic musicals to contemporary dramas, there is something for everyone to enjoy at these charming festivals.
One festival not to be missed this summer is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. With its stunning outdoor theaters and diverse lineup of plays, this festival has something for everyone to enjoy. From the epic tragedy of “King Lear” to the whimsical comedy of “Twelfth Night,” there is no shortage of world-class theater to experience at this renowned festival.
**Conclusion**
As the summer festival season approaches, theater lovers are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see some of the top plays of the year. From Shakespeare in the Park to new works by emerging playwrights, there is no shortage of exciting theater to enjoy at these festivals. Whether you prefer classic dramas or cutting-edge comedies, there is something for everyone to experience this summer.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your picnic blanket, pack a picnic, and head out to one of these top summer festival plays. You won’t want to miss out on the magic of live theater under the stars. Which play will you be seeing this summer?