Merced Shakespearefest is dedicated to creating and performing high quality productions of Shakespeare plays that reflect and embrace the diversity of our community. We are a safe haven and artistic outlet for all people with a desire to express themselves through the works of history’s greatest playwright, and for all who wish to enjoy the results of our efforts.
Merced Shakespearefest is a celebration of the works of William Shakespeare and his contemporaries, and an exploration of the influence they continue to have on theatre today. We are dedicated to staging and performing high quality productions of The Bard’s plays, as well as works related to and derived from his literary creations. It is our goal to create works of theatre that reflect and embrace the diversity of our community, and we will always be a safe haven for any person with a desire to join with us in celebrating the works and influence of history’s greatest playwright.
HISTORY
In 2002, we dreamed of bringing free Shakespeare to city parks—great plays performed in a relaxed, welcoming space with no ticket barrier. That dream became Merced Shakes, a true community theater created by and for the Central Valley, with performers ages 5–80 and audiences from near and far.
We produce family-friendly summer shows, affordable indoor productions in the off-season, and we take Shakespeare to smaller towns as well. Our heart has always been the same: to make Shakespeare understandable, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
Huzzah!
"We are the stuff that dreams are made on ..."
Heike Hambley
Founder and Artistic Director
Merced Shakespearefest