General

• Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, founded in 1996 is a registered non-profit with approved 501C(3) status.

• Apprenticeships, Internship and Volunteering opportunities are available – we can always use a helping hand. Please email if you would like to help out or need more information.

 

Boston Common Performances

When are the performances?

July 28-August 15. Performances Tuesday-Saturday begin at 8PM, Sundays begin at 7PM.

Are there matinees?

There will be a matinee of OTHELLO on Sunday, August 8 at 2PM. There will also be matinee performances of SHAKESPEARE ON LOVE, performed by our Apprentice Company, on Wednesday, August 11 at 10AM and Saturday, August 14 at 2PM.

Where are the performances?

At the Parkman Bandstand on the Boston Common.

How much are tickets?

All performances of Othello are free and open to the public.

Are shows canceled for weather?

Yes, in cases of heavy rain or lightning storms. Audiences can check-in with the Weather Hotline or our Twitter stream 1 or 2 hours before the show for cancellation announcements. Weather hotline: 617-426-0863 (ext. 7)

When should I arrive?

Some people arrive as early as 2-3 hours before the performance to stake out their spot, but there is a lot of space on the Boston Common and you will be able to find room no matter when you arrive.

Are there chairs?

Lawn chairs are available for rent in the chair rental tents on either side of the stage. Chair rentals are $7 plus a $3 deposit that will be returned to you when you return the chair.

Can I bring my own chair?

Absolutely, although if you have a tall chair that will obstruct the view of other patrons, you will be directed to a designated Tall Chair Section.

How do I get one of those seats near the stage?

OTHELLO IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. However, there are a limited number of reserved seats available for each performance. For more information, click here.

Is there food?

We are happy to be hosting a number of food vendors this summer. They are located around the Parkman Bandstand, facing Tremont Street. Bottled water will be available for purchase as well.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, although alcohol is not permitted on the Boston Common.

What else should I bring?

A blanket to sit on, a light sweater, mosquito repellent, and maybe an umbrella if drizzle is forecast.

Where should I park?

Parking is available in the Boston Common Garage. Be sure to pick up a discount coupon from one of the chair rental tents or from one of the ushers. These coupons, provided by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, extend a discount to our patrons and also direct funds to CSC. For more information visit the MCCA's website.

Are there restrooms?

Portable toilets are located near the tennis courts.

Is there anything else going on at the performance?

Our Commonwealth Concerts series, sponsored by New England Conservatory, will be going on prior to each performance August 5 - 15. Also check out our Lectures in the Grove education discussion, beginning 45 minutes before each performance in the Education tent.

Is there merchandise available for purchase?

T-shirts, sweatshirts, blankets, and tote bags are available for purchase at the chair rental tents on either side of the stage. 100% of the proceeds go to benefit Commonwealth Shakespeare Company.

How can I support free Shakespeare on the Common?

If every audience member contributed $10, we could fund this year’s and next year’s productions in their entirety. Donations will be collected on the Common, or you can contribute online here.