Great Lakes Theater (GLT), Idaho Shakespeare Festival (ISF), and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (LTSF) have launched a significant five-year partnership with Play On Shakespeare. This collaboration aims to enhance access to Shakespearean works by commissioning contemporary, modern verse translations and fostering innovative productions and community engagement across the United States.

The initiative kicks off in 2026 with a new translation of “The Winter’s Tale,” directed by Tracy Young. This production will premiere at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival before moving to Great Lakes Theater for its 65th Anniversary Season. Over the next five years, the partnership plans to stage four full productions, including a new translation of “Hamlet,” with at least one production touring to all three participating theaters.

Beyond stage productions, the collaboration will include extensive community programs. These will feature school-based initiatives using Play On translations, support for the Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s touring program, and summer drama schools and workshops. A core value of this partnership is a commitment to equity, ensuring diverse representation in casting and artistic practices.

Source: https://www.greatlakestheater.org/contact/media-room/2026/05/14/great-lakes-theater-idaho-shakespeare-festival-lake-tahoe-shakespeare-festival-and-play-on-shakespea