We offer a variety of workshops for all ages. No two groups get the same workshop and no two groups will leave without a new outlook on the "infinite variety" of Shakespeare's world!

To give Elementary students an introduction to the world of Shakespeare, we provide a variety of hands-on workshop choices, including fun with props and costumes. Workshops for Middle School classes offer students the tools to begin exploring Shakespeare's language and stories.

In High School and College settings, we cater to both English and Theatre classes. Workshops for English classes marry language with performance, while workshops for Theatre students give them the opportunity to develop their craft by working with professional theatre practitioners.

Because we believe that you never stop learning, we offer on-your-feet workshops for Adult and Corporate groups. These are ideal for drama clubs, community theatres, executive groups, church groups, and teachers. You will emerge with a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's language, as well as learn the invaluable skills of clarity of movement and delivery - all tools you can take back to enrich your personal and professional life.

Unless otherwise noted, we tailor each workshop for any age group.

Workshops at the Blackfriars or at Your School

* We regret that we are only able to travel to schools that are within a two-hour radius of Staunton. Additional travel expenses incur extra cost.

Shakespeare On Your Feet

American Shakespeare Center actor/directors lead this workshop tailored to meet the age and academic requirements of your group. We take Shakespeare off the page, put it in your hands, and give you the tools to bring his words to life. "Shakespeare on Your Feet" introduces the language of Shakespeare and shows how his words belong to you and how much fun they can be.

Workshops at the Blackfriars Only

Show-Tour

Led by American Shakespeare Center [actors/directors], the tour is an introduction to the Blackfriars Playhouse and Elizabethan and American Shakespeare Center staging conditions. An excellent pre-show activity!

11 am Monday - Saturday
2 pm Monday - Friday
If these times do not suit you, please contact us to schedule a special time.
Size Limit: 20
Length: One hour
Cost: $5/person (group rates available)

Talk Back!

If you are not able to attend one of our regularly scheduled Talk Back! sessions, you can book one just for your school. Ten minutes after the end of the show, the actors and director(s) return to the stage to take your questions. Learn from the actors the secrets of bringing Shakespeare from the page to the stage of the Blackfriars Playhouse.

 

Adult and Corporate Groups

In addition to our standard workshop offerings, we offer day and half-day workshops. While exploring Shakespeare's language, you will also learn the invaluable skills of clear diction, focus, clarity of movement, and vocal power. Learn the skills necessary for leadership and communication in the workplace or just come to have fun on stage!

Half Day Workshops: 9 am - noon or 1 - 4 pm, maximum of 30 participants
Full Day Workshops: 9 am - 4 pm, with lunch break, maximum of 30 participants

Please contact the Education Center at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to book these workshops. Cost varies according to size of your group.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can I bring?
Size limits vary depending on the workshop, but most workshops work best with 20 to 30 participants maximum.

Is there a discount for seeing a show and buying a workshop?
Yes, the price varies depending on the workshop, but combining a workshop with a show is the best value and the ideal way to make the most of your experience at the ASC.

How long are the workshops?
Length varies depending on the type of workshop, though all can be altered to fit within a class period, if necessary.

Can we do a tour and a workshop?
Yes, the total time for the program would be 2 1/2 hours. The cost is the price of the workshop plus $5 per person for the tour (group rates available).

Is there anywhere for students to eat lunch?
We regret that we do not have indoor space for eating meals. In the warmer months, we can direct you to a grassy area across from the Playhouse or to nearby Gypsy Hill Park. Many restaurants and coffee shops offer inexpensive fare within walking distance of the Playhouse.

Is there bus parking in front of the theatre?
Yes, clearly marked bus parking on Market Street is one block down from the Playhouse.

What kind of space do you need if you come to our school to teach?
A classroom with the desks pushed to the side is fine. For larger groups, a gym, auditorium, or cafeteria is ideal.

Do we buy our show tickets from you?
No. You need to contact Education Sales in our Box Office at 1-877-MUCH-ADO or purchase tickets online. You must pay separately for tickets and workshops.