Attending theatrical shows is a great way to support local artists and theaters whilst also experiencing the fervor and spirit of a live performance and audience. If you’re looking to catch an outdoor live theater show in L.A. this summer to early autumn, this roundup is for you!

Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival

July 10-Sept. 1, 7 p.m.
4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles

Since 2010, Independent Shakespeare Co. has brought free Shakespeare to Griffith Park every summer. This year, the company continues the L.A. summer tradition with the romantic comedy “As You Like It,” featuring live music, pre-show discussions and theme nights. FREE. iscla.org

Pro tip: Shows start at 7 p.m., but come early to catch the immersive prologue at 6 p.m.

Theatricum Botanicum

Through Oct. 20
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga

Your summer isn’t complete until you’ve experienced at least one magical night of theater under the stars at Theatricum Botanicum’s historic stage nestled in Topanga Canyon’s hillside. This summer, their season includes “The Winter’s Tale,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Wendy’s Peter Pan,” “Tartuffe: Born Again” and a new play, “The Hispanic/ Latino/ Latina/ Latinx/ Latine Vote,” by Bernardo Cubría.  $15-$60; free for ages 4 and under. theatricum.com

Pro tip: For newcomers and parents of younger kids, we recommend bringing the family to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Theatricum’s signature production.

Shakespeare by the Sea

Through Aug. 3, 7 p.m.
Various locations throughout L.A. and Orange counties

Shakespeare by the Sea’s 2024 season presents a lesser-known Shakespeare play, “Cardenio,” and a classic, “Henry IV,” at various outdoor spaces throughout L.A. including Long Beach, Beverly Hills and South Pasadena. These family-friendly shows are about two hours long, so we recommend bringing your big kids, tweens and teens to this one. Arrive early to get a good spot and enjoy a picnic dinner before the show. FREE. shakespearebythesea.org

Pro tip: If you can’t decide, we recommend attending the July 12 performance of “Cardenio” at Wilmington Waterfront Promenade. This is a new park at the Port of L.A., located along the water’s edge.

To find more activities and entertainment for summer nights in L.A., visit our full roundup.

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.