Shakespeare in the Parks in Helena (2nd Performance)

Bring your chairs, a picnic and your friends to enjoy a wonderful evening of Shakespeare at Helena's Anchor Park on August 4.

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks returns for its 54th season, once again bringing the magic of live theatre to communities across Montana and beyond from June through September. Presented outdoors and free to attend, this beloved summer tradition welcomes audiences of all ages to gather for evenings of storytelling, connection, and shared culture.

This year’s tour features two of Shakespeare’s most cherished plays - The Merchant of Venice and Much Ado About Nothing - with performances in more than 60 towns across five states. Each stop offers a memorable experience set beneath Montana’s iconic Big Sky.

This season’s The Merchant of Venice explores themes of justice, mercy, prejudice, and the longing to belong in a divided world. As Bassanio seeks Portia’s hand and Antonio enters a dangerous bond with Shylock, Jessica risks everything to leave her father’s home in pursuit of love and independence. Blending romance with high-stakes courtroom drama, the play examines the cost of exclusion and the transformative power of mercy.

Directed by Kevin Asselin.

As you plan for this week, be sure to include the first night’s performance in Helena from Shakespeare in the Parks, Much Ado About Nothing on August 3.