San Francisco Shakespeare Festival

We believe that Shakespeare experienced in a communal setting - whether it be outdoors, in a classroom, or in a theater - elates the soul, inspires the mind, and unifies those who sit beside each other. Our programming represents the plays in their finest light, demonstrates their relevance to today's society, and inspires people to seek out additional theatrical experiences. We play a vital role in the Bay Area, lowering practical and perceptual barriers to arts participation, serving as a catalyst for audience development, reaching thousands who otherwise did not previously attend live theater, and fostering a life-long appreciation of learning. For the majority of our 75,000 annual audience members, we are their first point of contact with Shakespeare and the performing arts. The Festival presents 5 primary programs, operates on a $1.5M balanced annual budget, and is led by a 15-member Board of Directors, 9-member staff, and 11 Resident Artists. Free Shakespeare in the Park is our flagship program. Funded entirely by donations, we bring professional Shakespeare productions to large, diverse audiences, completely free of charge. We are one of the largest free Shakespeare programs in the nation, reaching up to 30,000 people each year in public parks throughout the Bay Area. Midnight Shakespeare teaches underserved youth literature, performance skills, discipline, and teamwork through the study and performance of Shakespeare. Shakespeare On Tour brings a 55-minute version of a Shakespeare play to 45,000 students and families at hundreds of schools, libraries, and community centers across California each year. Bay Area Shakespeare Camps are an opportunity for young people ages 4-18 to study Shakespeare’s plays in a fun, supportive atmosphere while learning the skills necessary to perform them. Tailor-Made Residencies share our professional skill, educational knowledge, and theatrical practice in a customized, unforgettable Shakespeare experience.