Shakespeare in the Park Will Return This Summer With ‘A Celebration of Black Joy’

A key element of a normal New York summer is coming back in just a few months.

Shakespeare in the Park will return this summer, with an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor taking the Delacorte Theater stage in Central Park from July 5 through August 29.

The adaptation by Jocelyn Bioh is called Merry Wives and will be “set in South Harlem amidst a vibrant and eclectic community of West African immigrants,” according to the Public Theater,which produces Shakespeare in the Park. The play “will be a celebration of Black joy, laughter, and vitality. A New York story about the tricks of the heart, performed in the heart of the City.”

It will be directed by the Public’s Associate Artistic Director and Resident Director Saheem Ali.

“In partnership with City officials, health and safety experts, and with our theatrical unions, the performance schedule, safety protocols, and free ticket distribution details will be forthcoming over the next several weeks.”