Ashland’s Shakespearean History
In 1935, a drama professor named Angus Bowmer brought his bold vision to life in the little town of Ashland, Oregon. What began with just two plays has blossomed into one of the most respected theater festivals in the world—the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. This festival helped transform Ashland into a cultural hub where Shakespeare’s stories feel as alive today as they did in Elizabethan England.
Theater Under the Stars & Beyond!
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival never sticks to just one script. Each season, the lineup brings something fresh: powerful Shakespearean dramas, lighthearted comedies, and bold reinterpretations of classics. There’s room for new voices, too, with modern plays inspired by Shakespeare’s themes of love, loss, and transformation.
Allen Elizabethan Theatre
One of the festival’s most iconic venues is the Allen Elizabethan Theatre. Watching a play here on a warm summer night—under the stars, surrounded by Tudor-style architecture—is unforgettable. But the magic isn’t limited to one space. Performances also unfold in intimate indoor theaters, giving you a new perspective with every seat.
And here’s the twist: alongside the well-loved plays, you’ll often find new stories that echo Shakespeare’s spirit. These modern pieces keep the conversation going, connecting centuries-old tales to today’s world. That’s the kind of variety that keeps loyal fans coming back season after season.
A Festival That Follows You Off Stage
The experience doesn’t end when the curtain falls! Here’s how the spirit of the stage spills into Ashland:
Setting the Stage
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival offers many immersive events and educational programs to deepen your engagement with each production. For starters, arrive early for Prefaces, the insightful 30-minute pre-show talks led by OSF company members or experts. Prefer to peek behind the scenes? Don’t miss the “Behind the Curtain” tours, aptly described as “The Show Behind the Show.” Led by OSF’s knowledgeable Tudor Guild volunteers, these backstage walking tours uncover the intricacies of producing theater in repertory.
Keeping the Dialogue Going
OSF also invites you to keep the conversation going after the show. Post-Show Talkbacks are lively Q&A sessions where audience members can discuss the play with the cast and crew. Offered on select dates (and free with your ticket), Talkbacks let you ask burning questions (“How did they stage that sword fight?”) and hear actors share insights into their characters and creative process. For the truly avid (or academic) fan, OSF offers workshops and classes like “Unfolding Jitney” and “Unfolding Julius Caesar,” which are a deep dive into a featured play.
Eat, Shop, & Stroll!
Beyond the festival gates, Ashland celebrates its Shakespearean heritage in delightful ways. A prime example is Oberon’s Tavern, a whimsical pub inspired by the fairy king from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For bibliophiles and collectors, there is the Shakespeare Books & Antiques. This quirky downtown shop is both a bookstore and a treasure trove of curios—naturally named in honor of Ashland’s literary patron saint.
To Sleep, Perchance to Dream… at the Stratford Inn
After full days of performances and play, you’ll want a hotel that extends the Shakespearean experience into your overnight stay. Lodging options in Ashland, Oregon, boast plenty of charm – and even a touch of the Elizabethan. The Stratford Inn is a favorite for cultural travelers, known for its comfort, central location, and subtle nods to the Bard. Named after Shakespeare’s birthplace, it combines modern amenities with Edwardian and Shakespearean touches that evoke a sense of “Old World charm”.
Stay with The Stratford Inn!
At The Stratford Inn, we offer more than just a place to rest your head. We’re located within easy reach of downtown and OSF, making it simple to soak in all that Ashland offers.
Our thoughtfully designed rooms and unique amenities, such as a Shakespearean library and a cozy indoor pool, make your stay comfortable and memorable. Whether you’re here to attend a single play or several, we’ll provide the perfect base for your cultural adventure.
