The Public Theater’s Free Shakespeare in the Park

Access For All

We share a significant core mission with The Public Theatre, and that is to reach as many people in New York as possible with opportunities to enrich their lives through the arts. No program in New York City more fully expresses this shared value than Free Shakespeare in the Park. Since 1962, Summer in New York has come to mean outstanding productions of the world’s most famous playwright, performed by some of the field’s most exciting artists, all under the stars in the middle of Central Park, free and open to all. Nearly six million people have enjoyed more than 150 free productions, delighting generations of New Yorkers and countless visitors to the city. This year we are particularly pleased to support the much anticipated return to live performance with the very special, post-pandemic The Merry Wives of Windsor.

Free Shakespeare in the Park Presents Hamlet

Aerial view of a large outdoor performance stage in Central Park surrounded by lush greenery, with a pond and the New York City skyline in the background. The stage is filled with performers and an audience, showcasing a vibrant cultural event in an urban park setting.

The Public Theater presents Hamlet at Free Shakespeare in the Park this summer. The Foundation is proud to be the season sponsor.