Naked Shakes “The Tempest” Outdoor at Elings Park

Storms, betrayal, and revenge are in the air, but so are enchantment, love, and even redemption in Naked Shakes’ new production of “The Tempest,” presented outdoors in Elings Park.

Currently celebrating its 20th season, the acclaimed UCSB ensemble presents a new production in its hallmark style of raw, energetic Shakespeare based on the power of the actors and the language of the Bard. Irwin Appel’s staging promises to be an innovative visual feast, filled with movement and choreography by longtime UCSB colleague Christina McCarthy, and an original score composed and performed live by Santa Barbara composer and musician Jim Connolly.

The new collaboration between the theater company and venue was honored with a 2025 “Indy Award” from the Santa Barbara Independent for bringing al fresco Shakespeare to Elings Park last summer, with a celebrated production of “Much Ado About Nothing.”  Last year’s shows were so popular that a third performance, on Thursday night, was added this summer.

The company not only performs on campus but has also appeared at Italy’s Verona Shakespeare Fringe Festival, Southwest Shakespeare Company at Taliesin West (Scottsdale, Arizona), Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles, Westmont College, and Center Stage Theater in downtown Santa Barbara. Visit www.theaterdance.ucsb.edu/performance-programs/naked-shakes.

“Naked” refers to the company’s signature style of using minimal props and costumes to focus on the Bard’s brilliant words. Join us for a magical production in celebration of the 20th Anniversary Season of this award-winning UCSB ensemble.

Thurs. & Fri., Sept 11 & 12 at 5 p.m.

Sun., Sept. 14 at 3 p.m.