SitP: Jackson Park

Shakespeare in the Park returns!
Join us August 2nd at Jackson Park
This summer we will be bringing you two truly wonderful shows: Richard III (Puppet Edition) & The Merry Wives of Windsor: Falstaff's Tale.
Cara Johnston is our Director and Dramaturg (you will recall Cara from her delightful role of Peaseblossom in the original work Another Midsummer Night’s Dream from our 2024 season), with Stage Management by Melissa L. Wanke*
Our mighty cast includes Libby Amato*, a cornerstone of the company whose unforgettable performances include a one-woman Hamlet and Beatrice in last summer’s puppet Much Ado About Nothing; Rebekah Farr, acclaimed for their work with The Constructivists and on staff with Pink Umbrella Theatre; and Kaylene Howard*, an Emerging Professional Resident at Milwaukee Rep and most recently gracing the stage at Renaissance Theatreworks in The Moors. Finally, hot off their return to Milwaukee from three years with the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Annalyse (Al) Lapajenko*
In addition to the performances, there will be live music by Early Music Now and Shakespeare-themed activities throughout the day. Shows are free to attend and do not require a ticket. However, we strongly suggest you register using the ticket link on this page.
(Registration allows us to keep you updated on any show information, weather or location updates, etc. Note: SitP Members can reserve your seat using the same link!)

Schedule
Renaissance games, pre-show programs, & a special Early Music Now concert create a full summer’s day Shakespearience.
1:00 Play, Games & Merriment Begin
1:45 About Richard III
2:00 Richard III
4:15 About The Merry Wives of Windsor
4:30 Early Music Now
5:00 The Merry Wives of Windsor
For more information about the shows, visit:
https://www.optimisttheatre.org/2026-season.html
For site specific info, visit:
https://www.optimisttheatre.org/jacksonsitp2026.html
(* Member of or appearing under a contract with Actors' Equity Association)