“Better three hours too soon than a minute too late.” — The Merry Wives of Windsor

The importance of curtain time — Usually the first twenty minutes of a play sets up the plot—critical to making the rest of the play so enjoyable. We show respect to our audience members (and actors too!) by seating late-comers at a suitable break in the action (usually between scenes.) Often this may take as long as twenty minutes! Serve your own enjoyment of the Festival plays and that of your fellow patrons by arriving and seating yourself before “curtain”!

“Give it an understanding but no tongue.” — Hamlet
Entering the world of the play — It takes players and play-goers together to create the optimum theatrical experience. Rapt attention and concentration on the part of the audience and the actors make the performance unique and alive. For this reason we request that patrons turn off all “noise-making devices”: cell-phones (no text-messaging, please!), pagers, watch alarms and even mouths! Please be mindful of your neighbors and the actors by refraining from talking to your companions or taking phone calls during the performance.

“Those that do teach young babes do it with gentle means and easy tasks.” — Othello
How old do you have to be to enjoy Shakespeare? — We think it’s good to expose kids to the beauty of Shakespeare early in their education—beginning around age five or so. But let’s face it, Shakespeare’s language takes some getting used to, and the average running time for most of the Festival’s shows is two hours and fifteen minutes. So when bringing young children to the theatre, we suggest that you familiarize your child with the plot and even the language so that the play is easier to follow and enhances your child’s (and even your own) enjoyment. Naps prior to performances are a good idea as well! We gently request that patrons do not bring children younger than 5 to performances, as they will not be admitted.

“Dost thou think because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?” — Twelfth Night
Eating, drinking and enjoying the play — In the Bard’s time, food and drink were sold—and consumed—right where a patron stood or sat watching the play. Luckily, we can replicate this experience! Please visit our concession stands for your refreshments.  Food and beverages purchased from concessions are allowed in the theaters with the exception of glass.  Please be courteous to those around you.  Outside food or beverages and glass containers are not permitted.