Shakespeare in the Park Reopens with Star-Studded "Twelfth Night" Production

The highly anticipated return of Shakespeare in the Park to New York City has arrived, with a star-studded production of "Twelfth Night" taking the stage at the newly renovated Delacorte Theater. After a 2-year hiatus and an $85 million facelift, the beloved outdoor venue is once again welcoming audiences to experience the Bard's timeless comedy in a uniquely intimate setting.

The production, directed by Saheem Ali, features an impressive ensemble cast led by Lupita Nyong'o as Viola, Sandra Oh as Olivia, Peter Dinklage as Malvolio, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Andrew Aguecheek. The play's exploration of gender identity and romantic misunderstandings is brought to life with a fast-paced, sitcom-like energy, punctuated by standout performances and clever staging.

Highlights include Nyong'o and Ferguson's hilarious boxing match scene, Oh's delightfully vampish turn as Olivia, and Dinklage's rigidly pompous Malvolio. The production also incorporates elements of Swahili dialogue to underscore the characters' immigrant backgrounds, adding depth to the classic Shakespearean tale. While the focus on physical comedy at times overshadows the play's more melancholic moments, the overall experience is one of pure, unadulterated fun.

The Delacorte Theater's newly renovated exterior, with its curved, eyelid-like design and reclaimed redwood cladding, provides a stunning backdrop for the performance. As the sun sets and the lighting takes on a seductive, luxurious quality, the audience is immersed in the magic of live, outdoor theater – a hallmark of the Shakespeare in the Park tradition.