The Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival is set to make a triumphant return to Sen̓áḵw/Vanier Park this summer, with its 36th season running from June 10 to September 20, 2025. Festival organizers promise a rich blend of comedy, romance, and drama—with unique twists on classic works and the debut of new Canadian theatre.
“This season has something for all tastes,” said Founding Artistic Director Christopher Gaze. “Whether you’re a committed Shakespeare fan or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone.”
This year’s mainstage productions include Much Ado About Nothing, directed by Johnna Wright with additional text by Erin Shields, and The Two Gentlemen of Verona, directed by Dean Paul Gibson and reimagined with an energetic 1980s flair. Both plays will be performed in repertory on the BMO Mainstage.
Meanwhile, the Douglas Campbell Theatre will host two highly anticipated shows: the Bard debut of the international hit The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again], directed by Mark Chavez, and The Dark Lady, a new Canadian play by Jessica B. Hill that casts Shakespeare himself in a new light, directed by Moya O’Connell.
The 2025 season also features a variety of special events designed to enrich the festival experience. Highlights include:
- Bard Fireworks Nights (July 19 & 26): Evening performances of Much Ado or Complete Works, followed by a dessert buffet and Celebration of Light fireworks.
- Wine Wednesdays (July 2, August 13, September 10): Pre-show wine tastings for select performances.
- Bard Pride Day (June 28): A celebration beginning at 5:30 p.m. with special guests and activities.
- Family Days (July 13 & August 17): Matinees with special pricing and kid-friendly activities.
- Relaxed Performance (June 29): A “Pay What You Will” show of Much Ado in an accessible format.
- Bard Club, Bard Explored, Talkback Tuesdays, and free In A Nutshell pre-show talks offer deeper engagement for curious theatre-goers.
Tickets for the full 2025 season go on sale April 9 at bardonthebeach.org or by calling the box office at 604-739-0559.
Gaze added, “From the classic to the cutting edge, our marvellous Canadian theatre talent will bring this season to life with love, laughter, profundity, and joy abounding.”
Last modified: April 8, 2025
