Preparing for 2026
Click the image below to get a PDF of the 2026 Calendar.
Our 2026 festival season is expanding! We will present 5 mainstage productions, plus more Monday Night Revels (one-night only music, comedians, and more), the Fringe Series (staged readings by our professional actors, and performances by our amazing apprentices), and our annual Christmas production.
New this year is our inaugural spring production, a one-person show presented by our own Artistic Director Charles Pasternak: Vincent, on stage at the Veterans Memorial Building in downtown Santa Cruz. The spring performance runs from April 24 to May 10. Tickets for Vincent are on sale now!
The festival season performances begin on July 11 in the Audrey Stanley Grove (The Grove) in Santa Cruz’s DeLaveaga Park, with the holiday production of A Christmas Carol taking place in December at the Veterans Memorial Building.
The productions of the 2026 season include:
- Vincent by Leonard Nimoy - Tickets on sale now!
- Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare
- Macbeth by William Shakespeare
- Fences by August Wilson
- Private Lives by Noël Coward
- The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown
- A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Monday Night Revels Return!
July 20 @ 7PM
Pink Ladies of the Sonnets - A Drag Extravaganza of Shakespearean Proportions
Sparkling and fabulous performances by some of the Bay Area’s most talented drag queens and kings, as inspired by Shakespeare’s sonnets.
Monday, July 27 @ 7PM
The SCS Cast Plays D&D - Live!
Dungeons & Dragons performed as live theatre — equal parts epic fantasy and hilarious unpredictability. Whether you’re a longtime player or just here for the drama, you’ll witness a story created in real time that will never be told the same way again.
August 3 @ 7PM
Heartless - THE Heart Tribute Band
Heartless is California's premier Heart Tribute Band, inspired by more than 30 years of Rock & Roll magic from sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson.
August 10 @ 7PM
Starman SF - David Bowie Tribute
Starman SF is a glorious tribute to the legend, the music, the icon — David Bowie.
August 31 @ 7PM
Rockapella
They're back! After an amazing performance on the SCS stage in 2025, Rockapella, the original a cappella rockstars, return to the grove! Last year's show was incredibly beautiful and intimate. This year promises to be equally incredible.
September 14 @ 7PM
Surf City Allstars
If you were lucky enough to catch these guys at our final night at the grove in 2025, you know the excellent dance party that broke out and the 100% positive vibes. Don't miss it! Surf City Allstars are the only band in the world to have played and sang lead vocals in both the Beach Boys band and the Jan&Dean band and they still absolutely shred.
September 21 @ 7PM
Kristin Key
Kristin Key is a musical comedian known for her sharp wit, clever songs, and energetic performances, blending stand-up comedy with guitar-driven humor. She's a highly established, nationally touring stand-up comedian and viral video creator, particularly recognized within the queer comedy scene and among fans of musical comedy.
September 28 @ 7PM
Ronstadt Revolution
Ronstadt Revolution features renowned singer and stage performer Natalie Amaya, and consists of veteran musicians who have played onstage with Elvis Presley, Daniel Valdez, Sheryl Crow, Tina Turner and many others.
The Fringe Series
The Fringe Series returns with two staged dramatic readings. The SCS Apprentices will take the stage on AUGUST 17, and the SCS repertory company will present Hay Fever on SEPTEMBER 16.
Enjoy Member Perks
SCS is a major community success that continues to grow, and your membership is key. It enables us to create the theatre experience you want and provides the artists the resources they need to produce quality productions to reach and inspire new audiences. As a valued member of the SCS family, you’re offered a variety of benefits.
An Experience Like No Other
Santa Cruz Shakespeare performs at The Audrey Stanley Grove at DeLaveaga Park. Come early and enjoy the full outdoor theatre experience! Bring your own picnic basket, wine & beer, and see the wonderful views from our picnic bluff dining area while you enjoy a relaxed pre-show dinner. You may also purchase food and drink from our concessions partners.
New Food Options at the Grove!
LINE 38 is Santa Cruz Shakespeare's new food and drink experience at the Grove. Come enjoy a variety of tasty bites and classic favorites. Sip on your favorite glass of local wine or a refreshing specialty cocktail.
LINE 38 is offering an elevated menu using fresh local ingredients for you and your guests. Join us at the bar for a snack and a drink or enjoy yourself in the beer garden for our full menu and opening night specials.
Join the Excitement at Santa Cruz Shakespeare!
SCS Members enjoy early access to tickets, exclusive discounts, and other great perks!
