Hail Caesar, home from the wars…what darker fate awaits him? Suspicion, conspiracy, and power lust boil up in a rush to murder in Shakespeare’s gripping political masterpiece. As friendships are sundered and loyalties are tested, guilt pursues the killers to their dark ends. "A fresh take, and a welcome one, on a classic political drama" - Andrew Walker White, DC Theater Arts
In Elizabeth Bennet's iconic journey toward love, she learns the pitfalls of hasty judgment and discovers the difference between superficial and genuine goodness. The sharp wit and irresistible romance of Jane Austen’s masterwork has won generations of fans—now see it come to life on stage in a lively new adaptation by ASC veteran playwright Emma Whipday!"Whipday’s stage adaptation is spot-on, as is the show itself." - Andrew Walker White, DC Theater Arts
In this beguiling comedy, no one ends as they began. Magic-wielding fairies, yearning lovers, and foolish clowns swap one role for another as they romp through an enchanted wood—with their antics set down in some of Shakespeare’s most glorious and indelible words. “Lord, what fools these mortals be”….and how we love them! "It’s always a pleasure to see the company at its comedic best, and this production is no exception..." - Andrew Walker White, DC Theater Arts
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] (again)
This internationally acclaimed (and hilarious) [and beloved] distillation of all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays is returning to the Blackfriars Playhouse with an all-new cast of ASC veteran actors, after a successful run in 2023! In a rush to glory, three madcap players weave their wicked way through Shakespeare’s comedies, histories, and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave audiences breathless and helpless with laughter.
Step into an ominous world of witches, warfare, murder, and madness this season at the Blackfriars Playhouse with Shakespeare’s Macbeth, a relentless examination of the darkest depths of the human condition. This twisted tale begins with a supernatural prophecy that sets in motion a bloody course of events for Macbeth and his Lady as they descend into treachery and turmoil.
Oscar Wilde's brilliant and wicked The Importance of Being Earnest, is a comedic masterpiece that unravels a web of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and clever deceptions. When two young gentlemen decide to adopt fictitious personas to escape the constraints of societal expectations, a whirlwind of hilarious misunderstandings ensues. As love interests collide and secret pasts are revealed, Wilde weaves a delightful tapestry of wit, absurdity, and biting satire.
In this uproarious comedy, Sir John Falstaff finds himself entangled in the shrewd schemes of two clever Windsor wives who unite to outwit one of Shakespeare's most endearing scoundrels. Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan domestic life and featuring an eclectic ensemble of zany characters, this irresistible comic confection weaves together romance and farce to create a joyful story of community and family.
In the treacherous mountains of Transylvania, a meek English real estate agent takes a harrowing journey to meet a new and mysterious client, who also just happens to be the most terrifying and ferocious monster the world has ever known: Count Dracula! Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors is a Bram-new comedy by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen filled with clever wordplay and anything-goes pop culture references. This 90-minute, gender-bending, quick-changing, laugh-out-loud take on Bram Stoker’s iconic story is perfect for audiences of all blood types.
A series of Friday night lectures, workshops, and panels featuring a line up of scholars, industry experts, ASC familiar faces, and powerful partnerships.
"No Kidding" is an education programming series for anyone 18 and up! Join in the fun and perform on the Blackfriars Stage along with ASC Education Artists and other special guests.
Join ASC in celebrating Shakespeare's 460th Birthday with a party on Saturday, April 20 at the Blackfriars Playhouse! ASC Drama Club will kick off the festivities with a performance at 10am, followed by a plethora of family-friendly activities including craft stations, classic birthday traditions, and a bouncy castle. It's a family-friendly day of Shakespearean delight for kids of all ages. Admission is free!
Bandy Candy is back in 2024! Every ticket sold to this spectacular event will help ensure that ASC's instruments receive the care they need to keep the music playing for generations to come. Join us for an evening of live music led by ASC Music Director, Summer England, and support this worthy cause. The concert will include music from our Spring Season, including some never-before-heard songs that didn't make the final cut. Let's keep the music alive together!
ASC invites all students ages 12-18 to join us for Reimagining Love: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Workshop. Delve into the intricate relationships of Shakespeare's iconic play as we dissect the text and engage in thought-provoking discussions of love and relationships. Discover the power of healthy boundaries and respect in all relationships. Then, brace yourselves for the ultimate challenge: reshaping the tale of Helena and Demetrius to foster respect and understanding. The workshop is FREE with advanced RSVP required.
Prepare to be dazzled as ASC and North Ridge Café join forces to bring you an unparalleled show experience! Enjoy a charcuterie box filled with local cured meats, cheeses, macarons, and more during select Sunday matinees throughout 2024. Pre-order is required for this snack box.
ASC has partnered with local wineries and breweries for a special pre-show experience. Enjoy a tasting of the best libations in the area in our upper lobby on select performance dates throughout the year.
Explore behind the scenes at the beautiful Blackfriars Playhouse with a virtual Playhouse tour. Similar to our in-person tour, learn about our modern theater and its historical predecessor—with added locations inaccessible to the public!
Join us for a weekend at the Blackfriars Playhouse where you will rediscover the joy and accessibility of teaching Shakespeare. Our practical approach will send you back to the classroom equipped to make Shakespeare’s 16th-century lessons engaging for your 21st-century students.
Join us in celebrating Shakespeare’s 460th birthday with a birthday bash on Saturday, April 20. Featuring a performance from ASC Drama Club, family-friendly activities, cupcakes, and a bouncy castle, this special day is perfect for kids of all ages!
Band Candy isn’t just your average concert—it’s a powerful fundraiser with a unique twist! While you enjoy toe-tapping tunes on May 4, you’ll also be contributing to a vital cause: the repair and maintenance of ASC’s cherished musical instruments.
The American Shakespeare Center proudly announces the appointment of Vanessa Morosco as its new Executive Director, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s journey.
Get 25% off every ticket you purchase for an entire year! Join the Blackfriars Circle, an annual membership program designed to bring you the benefits of a subscription but with more flexibility.
Have a question for us? Looking for more information about your upcoming visit to the Blackfriars Playhouse? Visit our general FAQ page to find answers to many commonly asked questions!
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