From the 2025 Montclair Theater Festival, photo by John Posada
(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- The Montclair Theater Festival takes place Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm in Brookdale Park. Step into a day of theater magic, live performances, and community fun! Presented by Vanguard Theater, this vibrant one-day event features family-friendly shows like Suessical: The Musical and Shakespeare’s The Tempest, alongside performances from local artists, food trucks, and hands-on activities for all ages.
The Tempest (3:00pm) brings Shakespeare's magical tale of shipwreck, revenge, forgiveness, and redemption to life in a captivating outdoor performance. Filled with unforgettable characters, enchanting spirits, romance, and humor, this timeless classic follows Prospero as he conjures a storm that changes the fate of everyone on his island. Inspired by the tradition of Shakespeare in the Park, this abridged production offers an accessible and engaging experience for both longtime Shakespeare lovers and first-time audiences.
Seussical the Musical (6:00pm) brings the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life in a joyful adventure for audiences of all ages. Join Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, JoJo, and more beloved characters in a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, imagination, and believing in yourself. Filled with unforgettable music, colorful characters, and timeless lessons, this family favorite is the perfect outdoor theatrical experience for the Montclair Theater Festival.
This is a celebration of New Jersey’s vibrant theater community! Throughout the day, enjoy pop-up performances from a diverse lineup of local theaters, each bringing their own unique style and storytelling to the park stage.
The inaugural Montclair Theater Festival transformed Glenfield Park into a vibrant celebration of live performance, bringing together more than 2,000 attendees for a full day of theater, music, creativity, and community. Professional artists, community performers, and theater companies from across New Jersey shared the stage, creating an atmosphere where audiences could discover new work, reconnect with beloved classics, and experience the incredible breadth of our region's performing arts scene.
From two spectacular mainstage productions to showcase performances by local theater organizations, interactive activities, artisan vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly experiences, the festival became more than an event, it became a destination.
Now entering its second year, the Montclair Theater Festival continues to grow as one of New Jersey's most exciting summer arts celebrations. Whether you're a performer looking to share your work with thousands of theater lovers or an audience member eager to experience an unforgettable day of entertainment, connection, and creativity, the Montclair Theater Festival is where the community comes together to celebrate the magic of live performance.
