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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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!
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!
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:
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.
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.
SAN FRANCISCO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
PO Box 46093
San Francisco, CA 94146-0937
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© 2025 San Francisco Shakespeare Festival, a 501c3 non-profit organization.