The Public Theater's Public Works series will return in summer 2025 with a production of Shakespeare's Pericles, directed by Carl Cofield and featuring music and lyrics by Troy Anthony. Performances will run August 28-September 1, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.
The series, which invites community groups to take the stage alongside a principal cast of pros, is typically offered as part of The Public's Free Shakespeare in the Park series at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. That venue has been off the market while undergoing a massive renovation (the theatre is poised to reopen this summer with a staging of Twelfth Night starring Peter Dinklage, Lupita Nyong'o, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Sandra Oh, but it's the only show playing there this summer). The series appeared to be in further peril when the theatre laid off its longtime director, Laurie Woolery, earlier this year. But as the news of this production confirms, The Public remains committed to the program despite the leadership restructuring.
Also returning in summer 2025 is the company's Mobile Unit, which tours a Shakespeare production for free performances at venues across all boroughs. This summer's pick is Much Ado About Nothing, with Rebecca Martinez set to direct. The production will blend Spanish, music, and Shakespeare's original text for a new take on the comic love story. Performances will be in June 2025, with a schedule to be announced.
“The Mobile Unit and Public Works are the purest expression of The Public’s belief that culture belongs to everyone,” says Artistic Director Oskar Eustis in a statement. “I’m thrilled that Rebecca Martinez is joining us again to direct Much Ado About Nothing after the massive success of her Comedy of Errors, which played to over 30,000 New Yorkers in our parks last summer.
“For Public Works to perform Pericles at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine brings together two of New York’s most iconic institutions. Having long-time Public Works stalwart Troy Anthony make his Public Works debut as composer and adapter is a particular joy, and my friend and colleague Carl Cofield is making his long-overdue Public Theater debut with this project. These wonderful two shows will remind all of New York what Shakespeare can offer to our city in this time of need.”
Information on how to get free tickets to both productions will be revealed next year. Visit PublicTheater.org.
