This summer, nearly 1000 audience members experienced our production Romeo and Juliet in Chicago parks.

This play was brought to the south, north, east, and west sides of Chicago, ensuring that Shakespeare and his brilliant language were introduced to areas where, frankly, not enough Shakespeare is seen, heard, or even thought of.

With the help of Friends of the Parks, and through partnering with each park itself, this play was made possible.  With the talents of 15 Chicago actors, the play was made reality.

Purple Bench thanks those above for their hard work, dedication, and belief.  Purple Bench also thanks you, Chicago, for your warm reception.

Keep watching the website.  Big things are in store.

"...a vibrant supporting cast...rattling fight scenes..."

"...seeing [Shakespeare] done well, for free, on a sunny day in the park, is something special."

- Keith Griffith, Chicago Reader

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"... both Anna Glowacki’s eye-catching costumes and Adam Miller-Batteau’s tight swordfights proved attractive..."

-Kris Vire, TimeOut Chicago

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Learn more about our fight director and our costume designer.