Free Shakespeare in the Park 2026: Antony and Cleopatra at McLaren Park (SF)

Submitted by the Event Organizer

September 5 – September 13 / Saturdays, Sundays, & Labor Day Monday at 2:00 pm

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s 44th season of Free Shakespeare in the Park presents “Antony and Cleopatra.” This timeless tale of power, passion, and politics examines the conflict between duty and desire, and the impact of personal relationships on political power. The heart of the drama lies in the powerful and intoxicating relationship between Mark Antony and Cleopatra – a bond that transcends borders yet threatens the very foundations of political order. Their love challenges loyalty, tests ambition, and reshapes the course of history.

Director Katja Rivera looks forward to offering audiences a compelling exploration of power, sacrifice, and the enduring tension between the heart and the state.

“Antony and Cleopatra” continues the Festival’s season of “Empire”, following the touring production of “Julius Caesar” that was performed over 80 times at schools, libraries, community centers and senior centers throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Taken together, these two plays start with the civil war in Rome and move to the destabilization of Egypt thirteen years later. “Antony and Cleopatra” conjures the merriment and creativity of the Roaring 20s and the Harlem Renaissance, stalked by the spectre of rising fascism.

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival has been performing Free Shakespeare in the Park since 1983, delighting audiences of all ages with free, accessible professional staged performances of Shakespeare’s plays. No tickets or reservations needed – just come as you are and enjoy the show!

Jerry Garcia Amphitheater is located in San Francisco’s McLaren Park, off John F. Shelley Dr. between Cambridge St. and Mansell St. The amphitheater is set back in the woods and not visible from the street; look for signs denoting the amphitheater parking lots.

Jerry Garcia Amphitheater features both terraced bleacher seating and semi-grassy hillside seating.
The Amphitheater is also wheelchair accessible.

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.