Publick Theater Moves Summer Shows Indoors

BOSTON — The Publick Theater is suspending outdoor performances along the Charles River this summer.

The Publick’s open-air venue on Soldiers Field Road has been the scene of summer Shakespeare productions since 1971.

But now, artistic director Diego Archiniegas says the amphitheater’s lighting and sound systems are no longer safe and need a complete overhaul.

“Ten years ago there was actually a fire there, which was instrumental in my taking the theater over,” Archiniegas explained. “That electrical fire had actually stopped everything.”

The Publick will move their productions inside, to the Boston Center of the Arts in the South End. The outdoor venue will be used by a smaller group.

The reduced Shakespeare Co. will perform shows before sunset that do not require lights or a sound system.