News Summary
This summer, the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company delights audiences with a free outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ at Boston Common. Running from July 23 to August 10, 2025, the production features a talented cast, including Nora Eschenheimer as Rosalind and Michael Underhill as Orlando. Directed by Steven Maler, the show emphasizes accessibility and community engagement, with various services offered for diverse audience needs. The charming outdoor setting and classic themes make this event a must-see for theater lovers.
Boston – The Commonwealth Shakespeare Company (CSC) is set to enchant audiences this summer with a free outdoor production of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy “As You Like It” on Boston Common. The performances will run from July 23 through August 10, 2025, at the historic Parkman Bandstand, with a press opening scheduled for July 30 at 8 PM.
This production is directed by Steven Maler, the Founding Artistic Director of CSC, and is presented in partnership with Mayor Michelle Wu, the City of Boston, and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, alongside the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture. The event aims to make theater accessible to the public, maintaining a long-held tradition of free performances that engage the community.
The plot of “As You Like It” centers around the characters Rosalind and her cousin Celia, who escape to the Forest of Arden in disguise after Rosalind’s father’s kingdom is wrongfully taken. The play delves into timeless themes such as love, family, community, and acceptance, making it a relevant piece for contemporary audiences.
The cast features Nora Eschenheimer as Rosalind and Michael Underhill as Orlando, who have previously appeared together in CSC’s 2021 production of “The Tempest” as the characters Miranda and Ferdinand. Supporting cast members include returning actors: Maurice Emmanuel Parent as Duke Senior/Duke Frederick, John Kuntz as Touchstone, Joshua Olumide as Oliver, Remo Airaldi as Corin, and Jared Troilo as Amiens. New to the CSC stage, Paul Michael Valley will portray Jaques, Stephanie Burden takes on the role of Phebe, and Brooks Reeves will play Adam/Sir Oliver Martext.
The CSC2 Company will also feature a talented ensemble, including Siobhán Carroll as Le Beau, Patrick Vincent Curran as Charles/William, Peter DiMaggio as Jaques de Boys, Clara Hevia as Celia, Cleveland Nicoll as Silvius, and Kandyce Whittingham as Audrey.
A dedicated creative team has been assembled for this production. The Scenic Design is by Riw Rakkulchon, with Costume Design by Miranda Giurleo, Lighting Design by Eric Southern, and Sound Design by Aubrey Dube. Additionally, David Reiffel will compose and direct the musical components of the show, ensuring a vibrant auditory experience.
In a commitment to accessibility, CSC will provide various services during every performance. Open captioning, assistive listening devices, and large print and braille programs will be available. Selected shows will also feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and audio description for patrons with visual impairments. This ensures that the production embraces inclusivity and caters to diverse audience needs.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own blankets or chairs to enjoy the outdoor setting comfortably, although rental options will be available on-site for those who require them. There is also the option for audience members to reserve seating in the CSC Friends Section through a donation starting in late May, providing a closer view of the performance.
This free outdoor production is not only a celebration of art and culture but also reinforces CSC’s mission to make theater accessible for all, inviting the community to partake in a classic Shakespearean experience under the open sky of Boston Common.
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