Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks joins this summer with arts partners from across the city to present ShakesFest: A Chicago Shakespeare Community Cabaret, with FREE pop-up performances in Chicago Park District neighborhood parks.

Performers, musicians, and dancers take center stage in this exuberant musical revue of songs riffing on familiar (and not-so-familiar) lines from Shakespeare! From pop to musicals, hip hop, and the blues, Shakespeare’s words find joyful new life in unexpected ways.

This FREE, fun-for-all-ages event celebrates community-building, connection, and the magic of experiencing live performance together with family, friends, and neighbors.

Featured arts partners include: Jose “iasEL” Gonzalez, DJ Jeremy Heights, James Heitz, Emma Lyons, Noelle Klyce, Move Me Soul, Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, and Yin He Dance.

Now in its eleventh year, Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks is an important component of the Theater’s Community Practice, a year-round community connectivity program rooted in engagement with neighborhoods and collaborations with local artists.

All performances at 6:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or  lawn chair.

West Pullman
Thu, July 14

West Pullman Park
401 W. 123rd St.

West Town/Ukrainian Village
Fri, July 15  

Eckhart Park
1330 W. Chicago Ave.

Little Village
Sat, July 16

Piotrowski Park
4247 W. 31st St.

Austin
Thu, July 21  

Columbus Park
500 S. Central Ave.

Englewood
Fri, July 22

Ogden Park
6500 S. Racine Ave.

Chinatown
Sat, July 23  

Ping Tom Memorial Park
1700 S. Wentworth Ave.