Shakespeare in Clark Park has set its sights on late July for its 21st season, and its 2026 run will feature a new production of ‘Hamlet‘, created in collaboration with Revolution Shakespeare.
The free outdoor production will begin touring July 24 before its main run July 29 through Aug. 2 in the Bowl of Clark Park. This new adaptation reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy through an ensemble-driven approach, with a local cast of actors sharing the title role in an “interpretation that emphasizes collaboration and community.”
Adapted by Tai Verley, Revolution Shakespeare’s Artistic Director and Cassandra Alexander, the production has its actors shift fluidly between multiple roles alongside a community chorus who paint a picture of Hamlet’s inner thoughts through song. The experience blends professional performers with a community ensemble, which makes this particular retelling quite unique.
“Everyone is Hamlet,” says SCP Producing Artistic Director Shamus. “Traditionally, audiences come to ‘Hamlet’ to watch a single actor take on one of theatre’s most iconic roles. We wanted to disrupt that expectation. Instead of choosing one great Hamlet, we put many Hamlets onstage. Our ensemble of four actors share the role, constantly shifting between Hamlet and the people who define his world in a fast-paced series of transformations.
“Alongside them, a community ensemble gives voice to Hamlet’s inner thoughts, creating a theatrical chorus that makes visible the questions, contradictions, and impulses we all carry within us.”
For more than two decades, Shakespeare in Clark Park has welcomed thousands of audience members each summer by transforming public spaces into gathering places. Guided by the belief that Shakespeare “should be accessible to everyone”, the company aims to always combine professional artistry with local participation.
As a release notes, as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, this year’s Hamlet invites audiences to reflect on timeless themes of identity, leadership, and justice through a contemporary lens.
Touring performances begin July 24 in Malvern and July 25 in West Chester before the company returns to Philadelphia for nightly performances July 29 through Aug. 2 at the Bowl of Clark Park, with additional tour dates to be announced. All performances are free and open to the public. For more information, visit shakespeareinclarkpark.org.
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