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San Francisco
Shakespeare
Festival

Celebrating 41 years of Access, Engagement, and Education

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access

San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s mission is to make the words and themes of Shakespeare accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity, financial status or level of education. By lowering practical and perceptual barriers, we encourage broad participation in the arts and make these activities a part of community life.

engagement

The Festival serves as a catalyst for audience development by reaching thousands of people who otherwise do not attend live theater or may have never experienced it at all. Our programming represents the plays in their finest light, demonstrates their relevance to today’s society, and inspires our students and audiences to seek out additional theatrical experiences.

education

We are dedicated to arts education, using our programs to foster a life-long appreciation of learning and the arts. We offer day camps and classes for children age 7 to 17, as well as in-school residencies and playshops.

what's shakin'

shakespeare on tour
February - May 2025

Bring the magic of live theater and the beauty of Shakespeare’s poetic language to YOUR location. Send your booking requests NOW for this popular title!

The production is professionally directed and suitable for elementary students through adults. The tour visits schools, libraries, and community centers  throughout the state. Schools also receive a curriculum guide written by professional educators, with lesson plans designed to help teachers prepare their students to more fully appreciate the performance.

shakespeare's heartbeat
Engaging Students on the autism spectrum

Shakespeare’s Heartbeat uses the Hunter Heartbeat Method developed by Kelly Hunter of Flute Theatre, utilizing the iambic pentameter (heartbeat rhythm) of Shakespeare’s words and the physicality of his characters to engage with students on the autism spectrum. Geared towards grades 4-12. 

let's talk about romeo and juliet
april 7 at noon pst

Join us for this enlightening discussion with Stanford’s Dr. Roland Greene, who returns for conversation with SF Shakes Board member Dan Rabinowitz and Artistic Director Carla Pantoja.

Dr. Greene’s research and teaching focus on the early modern literatures of England, Latin Europe, and the transatlantic world, as well as poetry and poetics from the Renaissance to the present.  He brings his keen insight to a dynamic discussion on Romeo and Juliet, examining its language, historical context, and enduring impact.

Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy with one of the foremost scholars in the field!

free shakespeare in the park
july - september 2025

In this entertaining comedy  two young men journey from a small Midwestern town – rooted in simplicity and tradition – to the alluring promise of California, where dreams are made and shattered in equal measure. Get on the notice list for updates about Free Shakespeare in the Park 2025!

shakespeare camps
June - July

Experience welcome but not required for our engaging Bay Area Shakespeare Camp programs for ages 7-15. 

Enrollment now open for 2025!

Dates for 2025 McLaren Park sessions:

  • June 23 – July 3 (ages 7-13)
  • July 7 – July 18 (ages 7-13)
  • July 21 – July 31 (ages 9-15)

SF Shakes
Annual Gala
Save the date: April 26, 2025

The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s annual Gala and Auction will return on Saturday April 26, 2025 to the San Francisco Italian Athletic Club in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood.

Mark your calendars now for a fun and festive event that will include excellent food and drinks, exciting auction prizes, and a one-hour performance of Romeo and Juliet.

SF Shakes
Annual Gala
Save the date: April 26, 2025

The San Francisco Shakespeare Festival’s annual Gala and Auction will return on Saturday April 26, 2025 to the San Francisco Italian Athletic Club in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood.

Mark your calendars now for a fun and festive event that will include excellent food and drinks, exciting auction prizes, and a one-hour performance of Romeo and Juliet.

support sf shakes

Your gift keeps Shakespeare accessible to all.
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