Island Shakespeare Fest Opens its 16th Season July 18!
This season, fearless women defy the status quo, rewrite the rules, and prove that love and selfhood are not a choice—they’re a revolution.
“Much Ado About Nothing”By: William Shakespeare, Directed by: Chad “Dex” Kinsman
Event Date(s): July 18 – Aug. 31

In Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” words are weapons and wit is a shield. Beatrice refuses to be anything but fiercely independent—until she finds herself caught in a battle of the heart with the equally sharp-tongued Benedick. Meanwhile, her cousin Hero’s gentle strength is tested by a world obsessed with female purity—making a whole lot of “ado” over nothing. Shakespeare’s “Much Ado” is a sparkling comedy of deception, honor, and unexpected love, where women must carve their own paths amid a society eager to define them.

“Anima (or Her Soul)” By: Amelia Pincherle Rosselli, Directed by: Emily Lyon
Event Dates: July 26 – Aug 30
Once again, we partner with Expand the Canon to bring a brilliant yet lesser-known classic to our audience’s attention. The art world is rarely considered the intersection of passion and propriety. But In Amelia Roselli’s “Anima” (translated to English as “Her Soul”), painter Olga de Velaris finds herself at just that crossroads, testing the limits of how much she can express. In 1890’s Rome, she is surrounded by women who must navigate the tightrope of reputation, desire, and survival. “Anima” is a powerful, rarely staged drama that lays bare the tension between self-determination and the longing for connection, revealing that love—when truly seen—does not have to mean surrender. Step into this quirky, disarming, and award-winning play for an examination of who we’re really seeking.

Island Shakespeare Festival, 5476 Maxwelton Road, Langley WA
Price: Pay What You Will, or reserve a seat for $36
Get Tickets Here:
https://www.ticketsource.com/island-shakespeare-festival