Walking Plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Walking Plays are full-length plays adapted exclusively for The Morton Arboretum and performed by local professional actors.
A walk leader guides the audience to each scene, which takes place at several natural backdrop locations along a one- to two-mile hiking route. Audiences are encouraged to bring water, portable chairs or blankets for seating, and bug spray.
Walking Plays take place on select Saturdays and Sundays in July and August. Performances begin at the Thornhill Shelter on the Arboretum’s West Side and last approximately 90 minutes to two hours.
Summer performances (July and August) begin at 6:00 p.m.
A low-impact hike date is offered on Saturday, July 25. This performance covers a shorter distance at a slower pace and stays near paved paths, wherever possible.
2026 Summer Performances
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the classic Shakespearean romp, comes to the fairy forest of the Arboretum. In this tale, audiences will be captivated by magic, music, and mistaken identities. It’s the perfect way to experience Shakespeare for the first time—and a feast for longtime lovers of the Bard. The performance runs approximately 90 minutes and includes a 1.5-mile walk, with no intermission. Suitable for all ages, with some crass humor and romantic situations.
July 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26
August 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16
Learn more: arb.eco/4ediMAn.
The Morton Arboretum acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.