The enchanting prairies of South Dakota are set to echo with the timeless verses of William Shakespeare as the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival (SDSF) proudly announces auditions for its much-anticipated 2026 production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” This celebrated event will take place in the picturesque Vermillion, a city cherished for its small-town charm and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespearean actor or an emerging talent, the festival opens doors for all to be a part of this enriching cultural experience.
Morgan Ford
This year’s production will be directed by the talented Morgan Ford, known for bringing innovative perspectives to classical works. The festival, rooted deeply in the South Dakota community, not only aims to entertain but also to educate, drawing both local and national performers to engage in a dialogue of cultural sharing and creativity.
Rehearsals for “Much Ado About Nothing” are scheduled from May 25th to June 17th, 2026, with wrap-up dates on June 22nd and 23rd, at the Warren M. Lee Center for Fine Arts and the scenic Prentis Park. These locations offer a quintessential backdrop for performers to breathe life into Shakespeare’s characters, echoing the timeless tales across Vermillion’s lush landscapes. Performances will enchant audiences from June 18th to June 21st, 2026.
In an effort to build a diverse and dynamic ensemble, the SDSF is seeking actors from across the Great Plains and nationally, offering three professional contracts at $500 per week and two apprentice contracts at $375 per week. This year, a unique opportunity is also presented in the form of three six-week contracts for professional actors/teaching artists who will focus on engaging youth within the Juvenile Justice System. These roles, paying $600 per week, emphasize the festival’s commitment to outreach and community involvement.
For performers planning to travel to Vermillion, the SDSF offers local housing and a travel stipend, making it accessible for artists from various regions to participate in this noble endeavor.
Submit your video auditions by clicking here, with a deadline set for midnight on January 26th, 2026. Actors should prepare two contrasting Shakespeare monologues. Those with musical talent can include up to two minutes of music in their audition submission.
South Dakota takes immense pride in hosting the Shakespeare Festival, a testament to the region’s dedication to the arts. The annual festival not only signifies a celebration of Shakespearean literature but also highlights South Dakota’s thriving commitment to providing free, quality cultural experiences for its community. It is this unwavering dedication that attracts audiences and participants alike, fostering a unique cultural dialogue on the plains.
For those wishing to witness this remarkable blend of culture and community, the SDSF not only provides entertainment but also strengthens the socio-cultural fabric of South Dakota, engaging all ages and backgrounds in a shared experience of storytelling, art, and camaraderie. As preparations for the 2026 production gear up, the excitement and anticipation within Vermillion and beyond continue to grow, promising yet another unforgettable chapter in South Dakota’s rich tapestry of artistic expression.
For more details about the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival, visit their official website at https://www.sdshakespearefestival.org.