New York City’s beloved tradition of Shakespeare in the Park reached a new high on June 23, 2025, with the opening night of Twelfth Night, one of the Bard’s most iconic comedies. Held at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, this annual free event draws thousands of theatergoers each summer, eager to experience Shakespeare’s works in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic public spaces. This year’s production has garnered significant attention not only for its star-studded cast but also for its innovative reimagining of the classic play, reflecting modern sensibilities while staying true to Shakespeare’s original vision.
A New Take on a Timeless Classic
Directed by acclaimed theater director Lauren Smith, Twelfth Night in 2025 brings a contemporary twist to the traditional staging. While the play’s Elizabethan themes of mistaken identity, love, and deception remain at the forefront, Smith has infused the production with modern set designs, costumes, and an eclectic musical score that incorporates contemporary pop songs alongside traditional Shakespearean music.
“It’s a play about people who are caught between different worlds—of love, identity, and social expectations,” said Smith. “We’re using contemporary elements to help bridge the gap between Shakespeare’s time and our own, making these timeless themes feel just as relevant today as they did centuries ago.”
The production features a diverse cast, including renowned actors such as Tony Award-winner Alexandra Ruiz and stage veteran Michael Sullivan. Ruiz plays Viola, one of Shakespeare’s most beloved heroines, whose journey of love and mistaken identity is the heart of the play. Sullivan, known for his work in both classical and modern theater, takes on the role of Malvolio, the pompous steward whose attempts to woo the lady Olivia lead to some of the play’s funniest and most poignant moments.
The Legacy of Shakespeare in the Park
Shakespeare in the Park has been a staple of New York City’s cultural landscape for over 60 years. Since its inception in 1956, the Public Theater’s annual outdoor performances have offered theatergoers a chance to experience some of the world’s greatest plays in an informal, accessible environment. The program remains true to its mission of providing free theater to all New Yorkers, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
In 2025, Shakespeare in the Park continues to thrive as one of New York’s most cherished cultural events, with the Delacorte Theater’s picturesque setting under the stars offering an unforgettable theater experience. The theater has become a symbol of artistic and cultural inclusion, inviting everyone from seasoned theatergoers to first-time attendees to enjoy live performances in the heart of Central Park.
A Modern Perspective on Love and Identity
In this year’s Twelfth Night, much emphasis is placed on themes of identity, fluidity, and love. The production intentionally highlights how gender and identity are performative constructs, mirroring the play’s use of cross-dressing and mistaken identities. For instance, the character of Viola, who disguises herself as Cesario, becomes a central symbol of the blurred lines between masculine and feminine roles, a theme that resonates with modern conversations about gender identity.
One of the most striking updates to this production is the incorporation of music that echoes the changing landscape of LGBTQ+ rights, with songs from queer artists and contemporary hits that speak to the fluidity of identity and the search for self-expression. The music choices—ranging from pop anthems to softer ballads—create an emotional resonance that deepens the connection between Shakespeare’s work and the lived experiences of today’s audience.
A Strong Cultural Impact
The production has already received rave reviews from both critics and the public, with many praising the production’s bold reimagining of the classic. New York Times theater critic Emma Bailey noted, “Lauren Smith has brought a contemporary freshness to a 400-year-old play, allowing Twelfth Night to speak to a new generation while remaining faithful to the emotional core of Shakespeare’s masterpiece.”
The opening night was attended by a who’s-who of New York City’s theater community, as well as public figures from the worlds of fashion, music, and film. The event has become a major highlight of the city’s summer cultural calendar, attracting visitors from around the world.
Conclusion
Shakespeare in the Park remains an essential part of New York’s cultural identity, and the 2025 production of Twelfth Night highlights the timeless relevance of Shakespeare’s work. As the play continues its run through the summer, audiences can expect an experience that challenges traditional perceptions of identity, love, and gender while celebrating the power of live theater in a way that only Central Park can offer.
