Virginia Shakespeare Festival Brings Love, Tragedy, and Laughter to Williamsburg

Ready for romance, comedy, and mayhem? The Virginia Shakespeare Festival will kick off its 31st season June 24 with William Shakespeare's comic masterpiece, "Much Ado About Nothing."

The Festival continues a long history of Shakespeare in Williamsburg. In fact, Williamsburg was the first place that Shakespeare's plays were professionally presented in the New World. It all started in 1753, when the Hallam troupe of London arrived to present The Merchant of Venice here.

To honor this illustrious past, the College of William and Mary created the Festival, which presents two of more of the Bard's plays each summer. All performances are held in Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall on the William and Mary campus.

To access a Google map of the hall, click here.

Here's the 2009 schedule:

"Much Ado About Nothing"
June 24 to July 5

One of William Shakespeare's most famous comedies, "Much Ado About Nothing" details the squabbles of lovers Beatrice and Benedick, as well as the comic relief, Constable Dogberry, as they clash in a battle of wits...all set against a background of disguises, tricks, and a cast of quirky characters.

"The Winter's Tale
July 9 to 19

A beautiful romance, featuring a jealous king, his wrongfully accused wife, and the healing power of redemption and unconditional love.

ART
by Yazmina Reza
July 23 to August 2

Winner of London's Olivier Award for Best Comedy and the Tony Award for Best Play, the comedy is about a group of friends, one of whom has just purchased a questionable item of modern art for a huge sum of money. Complications ensue, with hilarious results.

Virginia Shakespeare Festival Tickets

Good news! Ticket prices have actually stayed the same as last year (good to know something hasn't gone up!). For 2009, subscriptions are $51 for all three plays. Single tickets are $23 for adults and $12 for students. The group rate I(for 20 or more pre-paid tickets) is $18 each. You can reserve tickets by phone, or through their website.

Box office hours are as follows:

January 20 - May 22: Monday-Friday, 10 – 2 pm
May 26-June 21: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 – 6 pm; Sunday, noon – 4 pm
June 23 - August 2: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 – 8 pm; Sunday, Noon – 4 pm

They also offer summer camps for students ages 9-17. Students will study Shakespeare's language, the choreography of stage combat, and period costuming. Camps last one week and finish with an abridged version of a comedy. The cost is $170 per camper. Camp dates fill up fast, so hurry and call 757-221-2683.

Virginia Shakespeare Festival phone number: 757-221-2674
Virginia Shakespeare Festival Website: http://www.wm.edu/vsf/

While in Williamsburg, why not visit the Historic Area? We've listed our top five favorite spots at Colonial Williamsburg (as well as the spot you should skip). Befor you go, make sure you check out our free guide, "Secrets to a Cheap Colonial Williamsburg Vacation".



Return from Virginia Shakespeare Festival to Virginia Attractions

Go to Main Page - Virginia Beach Family Vacation Getaway

Go to Site Index