BREAKING NEW: Experience Shakespeare on the Water: Romeo and Juliet at Canalside – Monday, June 23 at 7PM! 🎭….
BREAKING NEWS: Experience Shakespeare on the Water — Romeo and Juliet at Canalside, Monday, June 23 at 7 PM! 🎭
Buffalo, NY — Get ready for an unforgettable evening of drama, romance, and the timeless beauty of Shakespeare, all set against the shimmering backdrop of Buffalo’s vibrant waterfront. On Monday, June 23, at 7 PM, Canalside will come alive with passion, poetry, and theatrical brilliance as Shakespeare in the Park presents Romeo and Juliet like you’ve never seen it before — on the water.
In what promises to be one of the most innovative and visually captivating productions of the summer, Romeo and Juliet will be performed on a custom-built floating stage at Canalside. Surrounded by the glistening waters of the Erie Canal and backed by Buffalo’s historic skyline, this open-air performance brings Shakespeare’s beloved tragedy to life in a setting that’s as breathtaking as the play itself.
A Waterfront Stage for a Timeless Love Story
Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s enduring tale of star-crossed lovers, takes on new dimensions when staged on the water. As twilight descends on Buffalo’s harbor, audiences will be drawn into the unfolding drama of love and loss between two young souls from feuding families. The rippling reflections, gentle breezes, and natural lighting will enhance the emotional intensity and lyrical beauty of this classic story, making the experience immersive and unforgettable.
This production is helmed by award-winning director Lillian Rhodes, known for her bold and imaginative takes on classic works. Rhodes brings a modern sensibility to the Elizabethan tragedy while respecting the original text. “Shakespeare belongs to everyone,” she said. “By placing the play on the water, we’re both honoring the majesty of the story and inviting a wider audience to experience it in a way that’s intimate, accessible, and magical.”
A Must-See Summer Highlight
The performance is part of the “Shakespeare on the Water” series, a new initiative by Buffalo Arts Collective and the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation aimed at blending the region’s rich cultural and natural assets. Romeo and Juliet at Canalside kicks off what organizers hope will become an annual tradition.
Seating is open and free to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. For those who prefer to watch from the water, kayak and paddleboard rentals will be available through local partners, offering a rare chance to experience the performance from the canal itself.
Live music will precede the play, beginning at 6 PM, featuring classical strings and contemporary reinterpretations of Shakespearean sonnets. Local food trucks and vendors will be on site, offering everything from gourmet snacks to craft beverages.
A Community Affair
Beyond entertainment, this event is a celebration of community and culture. In collaboration with local schools, students will help with production design, stage crew, and pre-show activities. “We want young people to see Shakespeare not as a dry, distant thing, but as living, breathing theater that speaks to their own experiences,” said Rhodes.
Educational booths and art installations inspired by Romeo and Juliet will be scattered throughout Canalside, providing opportunities for interactive learning and engagement. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of the Bard or someone who’s never seen a Shakespeare play, this event is designed to welcome everyone.
Practical Info and Accessibility
The performance begins promptly at 7 PM and is expected to run approximately 2 hours, including a 15-minute intermission. All ages are welcome, and the show is family-friendly. While the language remains true to Shakespeare’s original, the action and staging are crafted to be accessible to modern audiences of all backgrounds.
Accessibility seating and listening devices will be available. ASL interpreters will be present for the entire performance.
Canalside is easily accessible by public transit, bike, or car, with parking available at adjacent lots and ramps. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure prime viewing spots and to enjoy the pre-show festivities.
Don’t Miss This One-Night-Only Event
Mark your calendars: Monday, June 23, 7 PM — Romeo and Juliet at Canalside. This is more than just a performance; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime waterfront theatrical experience. Whether you’re swooning for Shakespeare, curious about open-air theater, or simply seeking a perfect Buffalo summer night, this event is not to be missed.
For more information, visit BuffaloArtsCollective.org or follow @BuffaloShakespeare on social media. Bring your heart, your imagination, and your love for great storytelling — and come see Romeo and Juliet like never before.