St. Louis Shakespeare Festival to make its Highland debut in August
“Two Gentlemen of Verona” is a fast, funny story about friendship, love triangles and making terrible decisions — and it’s part of the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s 2026 season.
By Brittany Blackwell,
Reporter
Residents will have the chance to enjoy free live theater in downtown Highland this summer as TourCo, the traveling arm of St. Louis Shakespeare Festival, brings a performance to the square for one night only.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and is expected to draw between 250 and 350 attendees. The production is part of TourCo’s expanded 2026 regional schedule, which will visit 30 locations over five weeks.
TourCo will make its Highland debut with the play, “The Two Gentlemen of Verona,” which is directed by Rebekah Scallet and is widely believed to be William Shakespeare’s first play.
Organizers describe it as “a fast, funny story about friendship, love triangles and making terrible decisions” featuring two best friends and a love interest.
Erin Vlasaty, senior manager of institutional giving, said the touring program was created to bring productions to residents that may not otherwise travel to St. Louis’ Forest Park for the main stage performances.
“There are some differences but the spirit remains the same,” said Vlasaty. “It’s meant to bring the experience to you.”
The non-profit looks to continue its mission to foster joy through the “Shakespearean tradition of art for all” as it spreads its footprint across the Metro East region.
“I love going to new locations,” she said. “We’ve done several repeat locations, but I think we will end up with a third of the performances being in new locations this year.”
TourCo performances are modeled after the organization’s well-known main stage productions but are designed for portability and ease of setup. While the main stage program features a larger stationary set, TourCo presents an abridged 90-minute version with no intermission.
The traveling production features six actors playing multiple roles, with portable costumes and set pieces that can be assembled and removed the same day.
No formal stage is required, though organizers need a 20 x 20-foot performance area. The productions have been staged in parks, university settings and other community gathering spaces.
Vlasaty said attendance last year averaged 209 people per stop, though crowds vary by venue.
“I feel really good about attendance after talking to the city representative,” she said.
Brad Koehnemann, city parks director, received approval for the special event at the April 6 city council meeting.
“They really liked the way the square was laid out,” he said. “We’re excited about it. It’s something new for us.”
Before each show, actors typically present a brief “living study guide” to introduce the story, key characters, and major themes and the whole family is welcome to show up.
TourCo performances run Aug. 4 through Sept. 6, with shows scheduled every night except Mondays. The main stage in Forest Park will host performances of The Tempest from May 27 to June 21. It is believed to be Shakepere’s final play.
The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival is primarily funded through fundraisers and donations from individuals and institutions, including the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis, Missouri Arts Council, Edward Jones, and the Whitaker Foundation.
