By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle
DOTHAN — “All the world’s a stage,” William Shakespeare famously wrote in his comedy “As You Like It.” On June 26, that stage will extend outdoors for the first time in Dothan history as the Southeast Alabama Community Theatre (SEACT) presents Shakespeare in the Park at Porter Park Events Plaza.
The free outdoor performance is scheduled for Friday, June 26, at 7 p.m. and will combine one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies with live musical performances, creating a unique evening of entertainment for families and theater enthusiasts alike.
Presented in partnership with the City of Dothan, the event marks the inaugural Shakespeare in the Park production in Dothan and is expected to offer a new cultural experience for the community.
In addition to the theatrical performance, attendees will enjoy live music from The Dothan Moonlighters and Reid Williams. Food vendors will begin serving at 5 p.m., allowing guests to enjoy dinner before the show begins.
Greek Street Dothan and Fox’s SmashBurger are among the vendors scheduled to be on site for the event.
“As You Like It” is one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated comedies, known for its themes of love, friendship, identity, and forgiveness. The play follows a cast of colorful characters who find adventure, romance, and self-discovery after fleeing to the Forest of Arden.
Organizers are encouraging attendees to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the performance comfortably in the outdoor setting.
The event is free and open to the public and is designed to appeal to longtime theatre and Shakespeare enthusiasts as well as those experiencing the playwright’s work for the first time.
Shakespeare in the Park:
What: Shakespeare in the Park featuring “As You Like It”
Who: Southeast Alabama Community Theatre (SEACT)
When: Friday, June 26, 2026
Food Vendors Open: 5 p.m.
Performance Begins: 7 p.m.
Where: Porter Park Events Plaza, Dothan
Admission: Free
Entertainment: Live music by The Dothan Moonlighters and Reid Williams
Food Vendors: Greek Street Dothan and Fox’s SmashBurger
Organizers say the event offers an opportunity for residents to gather for an evening of theater, music, food, and community fellowship while making a bit of local history as Dothan hosts its first Shakespeare in the Park performance.
