Shakespeare Dallas’ 2026 season is full of merriment, wonder and revenge

Key Takeaways:

• Shakespeare Dallas’ 54th Shakespeare in the Park summer festival returns in 2026
• “The Merry Wives of Windsor” (June 12 – July 19) celebrates Falstaff’s comedic exploits
• “Alice in Wonderland” (June 19 – July 17) offers a mature take on Lewis Carroll’s classic
• “Titus Andronicus” (Sept. 18 – Oct. 18) delves into Shakespeare’s goriest revenge tale
• All shows are outdoors at Samuell-Grand Amphitheater in Dallas, with picnics encouraged

The 54th Summer Festival

Shakespeare Dallas is preparing for an eventful 2026, kicking off its 54th Shakespeare in the Park summer festival with two shows that couldn’t be more different—William Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor” and Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.” “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” directed by Jenni Stewart, highlights Falstaff’s infamous attempt to woo two wealthy merchants’ wives to solve his own financial troubles. As Stewart says, “What makes The Merry Wives of Windsor so delightful is that these characters live recognizable lives. They worry about money, marriage, reputation, and social standing in a small town where everyone knows everyone else.” This comedic production runs Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday from June 12 to July 19.

Meanwhile, “Alice in Wonderland” moves to the stage on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between June 19 and July 17. Directed by Natalie Young, this grown-up approach to Carroll’s beloved story remains whimsical while offering a more thought-provoking angle for adult audiences. Shakespeare Dallas notes that it “will most likely be rated PG-13,” reminding theatergoers that it is not a Disney production. Fans of the original tale can still expect appearances by the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, and the Queen of Hearts in a version that, according to Stewart, “explores what it means to feel unmoored, to question who you are, and to realize that rules are often arbitrary.”

Revenge and Gore: Titus Andronicus

When the summer heat gives way to early fall, Shakespeare Dallas steers its stage toward darker territory with “Titus Andronicus.” Running Thursday through Sunday from September 18 to October 18, and directed by Dr. Danielle Georgiou, this shift to Shakespeare’s bloodiest tragedy signals an intense contrast to the family-friendly charm of the earlier shows. Mutilations, betrayals, and a cycle of vengeance drive the story, which centers on the war-weary Roman general Titus Andronicus. Families with children should heed Stewart’s caution: “It is not recommended for young children,” as the show contains “intense depictions of violence, revenge, and trauma.”

Why Families and Theater Fans Should Attend

All performances will be held outdoors at the Samuell-Grand Amphitheater in Dallas, where picnics are encouraged, and beer and wine are allowed. As with every season, membership opportunities grant additional benefits to patrons. The setting adds a relaxed, community-centered atmosphere that complements the wide tonal range of the shows—from the lighthearted pranks of Falstaff to the introspective confusion of Alice, culminating in the disturbing retribution theme of “Titus Andronicus.”

Enduring Themes in Shakespeare

Though these productions vary widely in mood, all reflect Shakespeare Dallas’ dedication to plays that resonate across time. Stewart believes that “what happens when justice becomes personal, empathy disappears, and violence is normalized” remains relevant in today’s culture. Whether it’s a farcical comedy or a tragic tale of revenge, Shakespeare’s explorations of identity, society, power, and morality continue to speak to modern audiences—making 2026 a season of both merriment and reflection for Shakespeare Dallas.