Step into nature this summer. Meet us in our region’s most beautiful parks with theater made to reach hearts. Free forever to everyone always.
What's On Stage
Shakespeare in the Streets
East St. Louis
Coming Summer 2025
Written by DeAsia Paige
Submit Your StoryOff-Stage
PAST EVENTS
The Tempest Sneak Preview & Panel
July 24 at the High Low Listening Room 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Join us for a discussion with Washington University Professor of Drama and Comparative Literature Robert Henke, resident Shakespeare scholar, and Tom Ridgely, Producing Artistic Director, highlighting this year’s upcoming TourCo play: The Tempest. Topics will include the creative direction of the upcoming show and influences on the Shakespearean genre of pastoral tragicomedy. Light appetizers will be provided and drinks will be available for purchase. Free for Festival Members, $15 for non-members
Shakespeare on Trial
May 14 at the Chase Park Plaza Empire Room at 5:30 p.m.
Join Judge Stanley J. Wallach and Commissioner William J. Gust for an enlightening lecture (CLE) on Shakespeare and the law! This year’s discussions will focus on two of Shakepseare’s favorite themes: banishment and disguise. Together, we will dive into the historical context of exile and deception cases, how they are used in the upcoming production As of You Like It, and their current-day statutes.
Confluence New Play Festival
April 12-14 at 3333 Washington
Take part in the development of new work at the annual Confluence New Play Festival. Three new plays commissioned by the Festival will premier as stage readings to members of the public and our theater industry friends. Join us, for plays by the 2023 cohort: Charlie Meyers (St. Louis), Maiya Corral (Chicago) and Cameron Noel (Carbondale). Learn More.
2024 Partners
St. Louis Shakespeare Festival’s commitment to radically accessible free theater is made possible through the support of hundreds of Festival members and supporters throughout the year. Lead support of the 2024 Season comes from the Regional Arts Commission, Edward Jones, the Whitaker Foundation, Switch, the Missouri Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, The Bellwether Foundation, The Trio Foundation of St. Louis, First Bank and Anders CPAs + Advisors.
The 2024 Artwork was designed by St. Louis branding firm Cartel Strategies, led by Chief Creative Officer and Founder Carlos Zamora.