Santa Cruz Shakespeare Expanded Fall Programming

The company added two productions to its schedule as it seeks to grow into a year-round theater institution.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Dance

A wooden theater stage in an outdoor redwood forest, surrounded by tall trees and natural scenery. — Santa Cruz Shakespeare has launched a new fall season at the Audrey Stanley Grove as the company moves toward becoming a year-round theater institution. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Santa Cruz Shakespeare has expanded its artistic reach by launching a fall season at the Audrey Stanley Grove. The theater festival is currently staging two plays, "Private Lives" and "The Last Five Years," as part of its effort to become a year-round entity.

Why it matters

The company aims to fill a void in the regional arts landscape following the closure of the California Shakespeare Theater. By expanding its season, the organization seeks to solidify its position as the largest theater festival in Northern California.

The current fall season features two productions directed by Laura Gordon, with "The Last Five Years" utilizing a two-person cast. These shows follow the festival's established growth as the largest theater entity in Northern California.

The players

Santa Cruz Shakespeare

It is an arts organization that currently operates as the largest theater festival in Northern California.

Laura Gordon

She is a professional director who previously directed The Book of Will in 2023.

California Shakespeare Theater

It is a former regional theater institution that recently ceased operations.

The details

Director Laura Gordon is leading both productions, applying techniques used in Shakespearean work to the phrasing of musical delivery in "The Last Five Years." The performances take place at the Audrey Stanley Grove, showcasing thematic programming designed to sustain the company throughout the year.

October 3, 2026: Final performance of Private Lives.
October 4, 2026: Final performance of The Last Five Years.

Industry Dynamics

The expansion reflects a broader shift in the regional arts landscape following the closure of the California Shakespeare Theater. By increasing its programming, Santa Cruz Shakespeare is positioning itself to capture the audience base left behind by the shuttered institution.

Local theatergoers can now attend live performances at the Audrey Stanley Grove through the first week of October. This extended schedule provides residents with additional opportunities to access professional productions beyond the traditional summer festival window.

The takeaway

The move toward a year-round schedule highlights a commitment to sustaining regional culture despite industry contractions. Audiences are encouraged to support local institutions during these transition periods to ensure the longevity of professional live theater.