The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), also known as the Ashland Shakespeare Festival, is a prestigious and long-standing regional theater event held annually in the Rogue Valley. Renowned for its rich history and fantastic performances, the festival has become a major cultural attraction, drawing theater enthusiasts from near and far.
Running annually from March through October, the festival is a must-attend event for anyone living in or visiting Ashland. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or new to the stage, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to make the most of your experience at the Ashland Shakespeare Festival in OR.
The festival focuses heavily on William Shakespeare’s timeless works, but it’s also evolved over the years to embrace a diverse range of theatrical productions. Each season, the festival presents approximately 11 different productions, offering audiences a variety of performances that span genres and time periods.
The Ashland Shakespeare Festival has deep roots in the Ashland community, dating back to its origin in 1935. What began as a modest community event has blossomed into one of the most distinguished theater festivals in the country.
OSF’s performances are staged across several distinct venues in Ashland, each offering its own unique atmosphere and viewing experience. The Allen Elizabethan Theatre, an open-air venue, brings the essence of Shakespearean performances to life under the stars. The indoor Angus Bowmer Theatre provides a more traditional setting with state-of-the-art facilities, while the Thomas Theatre offers an intimate space that fosters a close connection between the audience and the performance.
The festival’s season spans from late February through October, allowing theatergoers ample time to enjoy various productions. This extended schedule lets patrons savor performances amid the enchanting blooms of early spring, the balmy evenings of summer, or the refreshing crispness of fall.
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is celebrated for its diverse repertoire, featuring everything from Shakespearean classics to groundbreaking contemporary plays. Here are some examples of productions that have garnered acclaim over the years:
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival goes beyond its mainstage productions and offers a wide range of educational programs, tours, and events to deepen the audience’s engagement with theater.
These pre-show presentations are designed to set the stage for the play you’re about to see. Delivered by knowledgeable speakers—often a director—these sessions delve into the themes, historical context, and artistic choices behind the production to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the play, making for a more immersive viewing experience.
For those who want to engage more deeply with the performances, Post Show Talkbacks offer an excellent opportunity. These interactive sessions allow audience members to discuss the play with the cast and crew, ask questions, share thoughts, and gain insight into the creative process.
The Behind the Curtain: Summer Tour is a must for anyone interested in the technical aspects of theater. This backstage tour allows participants to explore set construction, costume design, and the logistics of staging complex performances, offering a fascinating glimpse into what happens behind the scenes.
Group Discussions are tailored sessions designed to foster thoughtful conversation about the plays. OSF facilitators lead these discussions, which delve into the themes, characters, and overall impact of the productions.
Are you looking for a budget-friendly way to immerse yourself in the festival? Enjoy free summer and fall entertainment at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s beloved Green Show! Held Wednesday through Saturday, with select performances on Tuesdays, The Green Show runs from May through October and offers a vibrant series of outdoor performances.
A cherished tradition at OSF, The Green Show takes place in the open-air courtyard known as the “Green,” just outside the theaters. Whether you’re in the mood for music, dance, or theater, The Green Show is the perfect way to kick off an evening at the festival or enjoy a summer night in Ashland.
Need help planning your visit to the festival? Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your experience:
To view the full season calendar and purchase tickets, please visit the OSF Ticketing and Calendar page.
Ashland offers a variety of parking options for festival-goers, ensuring convenience no matter where you’re coming from. For detailed information on parking locations and tips, please visit the OSF Parking Information page.
OSF is dedicated to making its performances accessible to all visitors. Services available include ASL interpretation, support for those who are Hard of Hearing/Deaf or Low Vision/Blind, accommodations for service animals, and mobility assistance. For a comprehensive overview of these services and how to request them, please refer to the OSF Accessibility Information page.
Treat yourself to a meal before or after your OSF performance! Ashland offers a variety of excellent local dining options to choose from:
212 East Main Street
Located in the Ashland Springs Hotel, Larks celebrates Oregon’s local farms and wineries with comfort food made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a relaxed, elegant atmosphere, perfect for any occasion.
35 S 2nd St, Ashland, OR 97520
Alchemy Restaurant and Bar, located in the historic Winchester Inn, offers an exceptional dining experience focusing on New American cuisine. Renowned for its award-winning wine list and bar program, Alchemy has been recognized by OpenTable as one of the “Top 100 Restaurants for Foodies in America” and featured on numerous “Best Restaurant” lists.
23 S 2nd St, Ashland, OR 97520
Bird & rye is a chef-owned and operated hidden gem in Ashland that offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere with fresh, high-quality food. Known for having the best fried chicken in the Valley, the restaurant is gluten-free and family-friendly, serving lunch daily. With a friendly staff and a great spot to watch a game or hang out, it’s a must-visit for both locals and visitors. Plus, it’s only two blocks from OSF!
Click here for more of our recommended dining options throughout the Rogue Valley.
When you become a resident of The Vineyards at Stage Pass, you’ll have easy access to the finest events and cultural activities the Rogue Valley has to offer, including the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. To explore The Vineyards at Stage Pass and start envisioning your dream life in this vibrant community, contact us today for a tour.
Imagine waking up every morning to breathtaking vineyard views, surrounded by the tranquility and charm…
Nestled in the heart of Southern Oregon, Jacksonville is a charming, historic town that captures…
Are you a California resident considering moving to Oregon? We don’t blame you! With high…
The Vineyards at Stage Pass is a premier luxury gated community in Jacksonville, Oregon. It…
Medford is a charming city unlike any other, and the unexpected awaits around every corner.…
When purchasing a plot of land at The Vineyards at Stage Pass, the possibilities for…