Free Shakespeare in the Park 2023: Cymbeline in Orinda (Sept. 16-24)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

September 16-24 / Saturdays & Sundays at 4:00 pm

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival presents Free Shakespeare in the Park’s production of “Cymbeline” – Shakespeare’s epic romantic adventure!

The show runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. No tickets or reservations needed – just come and enjoy the show. Seating is provided – no need to bring your own!

Believed to be one of his final plays, “Cymbeline” is widely considered to be one of his greatest achievements. Written from the perspective of an accomplished and experienced playwright, it features a dazzling mix of comedy, tragedy, romance, and fairy tale that concludes with inventive scenes of revelation and joyous reconciliation. The show has something for everybody – kings and queens, sword fights, live music, forest frolics, power plays, reunions and fantastical fun!

The play was selected by the company’s Resident Artists, who felt that this play’s sweeping story would help remind us of the power of live theater and the joy of coming together to share an epic experience.

In this tale King Cymbeline of Britain has banished Posthumus, a commoner who has secretly married his daughter, Princess Imogen. A series of unimaginable misadventures ensue that test the strength of their commitment to each other.

Director Maryssa Wanlass is interested in the fairy tale quality of this story, and leans in to the archetypal characters and sets the play in an alternate universe fantasy realm. Expect big performances, music, delicious villains, and ultimately a family-friendly coming-of-age story.

We at the Festival believe that Shakespeare experienced in a communal setting elates the soul, inspires the mind, and unifies those who sit beside each other. We hope that you agree and we look forward to seeing you this summer!

To make the show as widely accessible as possible, a recording of the performance will also be made available on a date to be announced. Visit sfshakes.org for updates.

Presented by San Francisco Shakespeare Festival

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.