Oregon Shakespeare Festival 2023-2024

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) occurs from March through October in Ashland, Oregon. The annual theatre event offers around 850 matinees and evening shows at three venues. Up to 11 plays are offered in daily rotation each week. The Festival dates back to 1935 and was founded by Angus Bowmer. It draws about 400,000 attendees every year. In 2015, the Festival marked its 20 millionth spectator.

Venues

The venues include the outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, the Thomas Theatre, and the Angus Bowmer Theatre, all within walking distance from each other. Every venue stages 3-5 classical or contemporary plays. In addition to Shakespeare's plays, new playwrights are added every year. The Festival employs about 675 actors, other paid staff, and 700 volunteers who contribute greatly to the local economy.

Shows

The 2024 season features an exciting lineup, including Macbeth, Born with Teeth, Virgins to Villains, Lizard Boy, Coriolanus, Behfarmaheen (If You Please), Much Ado About Nothing, Jane Eyre, and more. The 2025 season has already been announced, showcasing nine exceptional shows. This lineup includes Shakespearean works, reimagined classics, a powerful play from August Wilson's canon, and the highly anticipated revival of the acclaimed 2014 production of Into the Woods. Each selection promises a captivating exploration of adventure, redemption, and the human condition.

Schedule

The Festival runs all year round. The outdoor shows have a shorter run, roughly from late May/early June to mid-October.

Tickets

Tickets for Main Stage Shows start at $35 for previews and $39 for Tuesday evenings. For all other times, the lowest price seats begin at $45. For Solo Shows at Thomas Theatre, tickets start at $25 for previews and $29 for Tuesday evenings, with the cheapest seats for all other times starting at $35.

Educational Program

OSF also runs an excellent educational program for those interested in theatre arts. Theatre enthusiasts can enjoy classes, discussions, interactive workshops, pre- and post-show conversations, talks, and immersive experiences dedicated to performing on stage.

History

The Oregon Shakespearean Festival officially commenced on July 2, 1935, with a staging of Twelfth Night. This was followed by a performance of The Merchant of Venice on July 3, and another showing of Twelfth Night on July 4. Ticket prices were $1 for reserved seats, $0.50 for general admission for adults, and $0.25 for children. Despite these modest prices, the Festival managed to cover its expenses. Today, the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival stands as one of the oldest and largest professional non-profit theatres in the nation. The 2025 season marks its 90th anniversary.