As You Like It Takes the Stage at New Village Arts During Its Milestone 25th Season

This fall, New Village Arts invites audiences back to the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center for As You Like It, a joyful musical adaptation of William Shakespeare’s beloved romantic comedy. The production runs October 16 through November 29, 2026, continuing New Village Arts’ milestone 25th Anniversary Season right here in the heart of Carlsbad Village.

Adapted by Shaina Taub and Laurie Woolery, with music and lyrics by Tony Award winner Shaina Taub, this fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic blends romance, humor and original music into a story about finding freedom, community and a place to belong. The story follows Rosalind after she is banished from court and escapes with her cousin Celia to the Forest of Arden, where mistaken identities, unexpected romances and new friendships quickly unfold.

For this production, New Village Arts puts a distinctly Southern California spin on the story. The world of the court is reimagined through the glamorous, image-conscious lens of Hollywood before audiences are transported to a Joshua Tree-inspired Forest of Arden, a free-spirited setting where music, connection and self-discovery take center stage. Cast members will also play instruments live onstage, helping bring the musical world of Arden to life throughout the performance.

The production also marks an especially meaningful moment for New Village Arts. Founder and Executive Artistic Director Kristianne Kurner will direct her final NVA production before her retirement, bringing the company full circle 25 years after its first journey into the Forest of Arden. Kurner also serves as scenic designer for the production, alongside Music Director Angela Parrish and Choreographer Nikki Antoine.

Previews begin October 16, with Opening Night on Saturday, October 24, featuring a champagne reception and Handel’s Ice Cream. Performances continue through November 29, with matinees at 2:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and evening performances at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Single tickets are now on sale.

For Carlsbad Village, As You Like It is more than another production on the calendar. It is a celebration of 25 years of local theatre, creativity and community, while also marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of the Village’s longtime cultural institutions. For tickets and more information, click here.