When I visited the Blackfriars Playhouse, I was instantly captivated by its atmosphere and by the amazing work that goes on there. It is a center of excellence and should be protected and cherished. -- Dame Judi Dench

Mission Statement

The American Shakespeare Center recovers the joys and accessibility of Shakespeare's theatre, language, and humanity by exploring the English Renaissance stage and its practices through performance and education.

Who We Are

The American Shakespeare Center -- through its performances, theatres, exhibitions, and educational programs -- seeks to make Shakespeare, the joys of theatre and language, and the communal experience of the Renaissance stage accessible to all. By re-creating Renaissance conditions of performance, the ASC explores its repertory of plays for a better understanding of these great works and of the human theatrical enterprise past, present, and future.

Blackfriars Playhouse, Staunton, Virginia

In our hometown of Staunton, Virginia, the ASC has constructed a re-creation of Shakespeare's original indoor theatre, the Blackfriars Playhouse, and also has plans to build an open-air replica of London's second Globe Theatre, which was built in 1614 after the original 1599 structure burned to the ground. By following the basic principles of Renaissance theatrical production, we give our audiences some of the pleasures that an Elizabethan playgoer would have enjoyed.

Our Touring Troupe, the American Shakespeare Center on Tour

In addition to giving performances at the Blackfriars, the ASC on Tour travels the U.S. and abroad with the same unique brand of Shakespeare that thrills, delights, and educates its audiences.

Education Center

The ASC's Education Center brings Shakespeare's plays to life for teachers, students, and learners of all ages. Our offering of workshops, performances, actor training, and summer programs are specially tailored for you to experience Shakespeare as you never have before.

• What We Do
• Blackfriars Playhouse
• History
• Actors
• Staff & Boards
• Opportunities

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