Shakespeare in the Squares Celebrates 10th Anniversary with “Love’s Labour’s Lost” in 2026
London’s Shakespeare in the Squares, a not-for-profit theatre company, will mark its 10th anniversary in 2026 with a summer tour of William Shakespeare’s comedy Love’s Labour’s Lost, staging performances in iconic outdoor spaces across the city. The production, which runs from June 3 to June 5, 2026, will take place in Leinster Square (W2), Paultons Square (SW3), and Crystal Palace Park (SE26), offering audiences a chance to experience Shakespeare’s works in accessible, community-centric settings.
The Play and Its Legacy
Love’s Labour’s Lost, penned by Shakespeare in the late 16th century, is a lighthearted exploration of love, language, and folly. The play’s themes of romantic entanglement and intellectual playfulness align with the company’s mission to engage diverse audiences with Shakespeare’s timeless narratives. According to the Shakespeare in the Squares website, the production aims to “engage new and non-traditional audiences of all ages,” while also providing a platform for emerging performers.
Venues and Dates
The 2026 tour will begin on Wednesday, June 3, in Leinster Square, followed by a performance on Thursday, June 4, in Paultons Square. The final show will take place on Friday, June 5, in Crystal Palace Park. These locations, chosen for their historical and cultural significance, reflect the company’s commitment to bringing theatre to public spaces. The venues are listed on the organization’s tickets page, which also notes that the 2026 season will be its “10th anniversary celebration.
Support and Legacy
Dame Judi Dench, a patron of the company, has praised Shakespeare in the Squares for its innovative approach to theatre. In a statement cited on the organization’s website, she described the initiative as “a marvellous idea” that “offers a great opportunity to engage new and non-traditional audiences.” The company’s previous productions, including The Taming of the Shrew (2025) and Romeo & Juliet (2017), have received acclaim for their accessibility and creative staging.
Why It Matters
Shakespeare in the Squares’ annual summer performances highlight the enduring relevance of Shakespeare’s works in modern society. By presenting plays in open-air settings, the company democratizes access to classical theatre, fostering community engagement and artistic innovation. The 2026 season, marking a decade of outdoor performances, underscores the organization’s role in keeping Shakespeare’s legacy alive for future generations.