Free Joy for All: Mission Behind Shakespeare in the Wild

This summer, Shakespeare in the Wild returns with a fresh take on Romeo and Juliet—performed under the open sky and powered by a mission that’s as bold as the Bard himself. We caught up with founder and artistic director Leigh Miller to talk about free theatre, joyful collaboration, and what it means to build a company where everyone belongs.

Director Rooted in Craft and Community

Leigh Miller isn’t just the founder of Shakespeare in the Wild—he’s its heartbeat. With an MFA from the National Theatre Conservatory and a résumé that spans Denver Center Theatre Company, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, and Off-Center, Leigh brings both classical rigor and a deep sense of play to Colorado’s outdoor theatre scene. His vision for the company is grounded in collaboration, accessibility, and a belief that Shakespeare can—and should—feel alive, relevant, and welcoming to all.

Free Theatre, Real Impact

One of the most radical things about Shakespeare in the Wild is also one of the simplest: it’s free. “During our first season, we couldn’t decide on a ticket price,” Leigh recalls. “We didn’t have a system for managing sales, so we just didn’t charge.” What started as a workaround quickly became a core value. “The average cost of live performance on the Front Range is usually over $100 for a family of four. By removing that barrier, we become truly inclusive.” That philosophy extends to the company’s workshops, which are also offered at no cost.

Joy as a Creative Practice

The company’s tagline—“Free joy for all”—is more than clever branding. It’s a guiding principle. “It’s surprising how often the creation of theatre can be joyless,” Leigh says. “We’ve found that the best way to bring joy is to build collaboration into the process.” Artists are invited to contribute beyond their roles, and audiences feel that energy from the moment they arrive. “Even with tragedies, we’re in joyful pursuit of the theme. That spirit carries through everything we do.”

Looking Ahead

As Shakespeare in the Wild continues to grow, Leigh is focused on deepening its identity as an artist-driven company. “If there’s a place for future growth, we’d like to continue our educational workshops that help build communities of artists,” he says. With his blend of classical training, community focus, and a knack for joyful innovation, Leigh is shaping a theatre experience that’s as generous as it is grounded. Shakespeare in the Wild isn’t just a company—it’s a movement toward art that’s open, collaborative, and deeply human.

Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare fan or brand new to live theatre, Shakespeare in the Wild offers something rare: a space where artistry meets generosity, and joy is part of the process. It is playing August 15 – 31 (Thurs thru Sun) at 7 p.m. in deKoevend Park – Goodson Rec Center, Centennial, CO, and don’t forget, admission is always free. Information and tickets: https://www.shakesinthewild.com/