The cast of MACBETH & IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST. Photo by October Grace Media.

FALL INTO THEATRE

Shows to thrill, charm, and haunt

Photo by October Grace Media.

Holiday Happenings

Celebrate Christmas with ASC

Enrichment

Take your ASC experience to the next level

Macbeth 2024

Step into an ominous world of witches, warfare, murder, and madness this season at the Blackfriars Playhouse with Shakespeare’s Macbeth, a relentless examination of the darkest depths of the human condition. This twisted tale begins with a supernatural prophecy that sets in motion a bloody course of events for Macbeth and his Lady as they descend into treachery and turmoil.

July 18, 2024 – November 23, 2024
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K.P. Powell, in green digital camouflage, holds up a crown with an ambitious look. Text reads 'Macbeth by William Shakespeare.

The Importance of Being Earnest 2024

Oscar Wilde's brilliant and wicked The Importance of Being Earnest, is a comedic masterpiece that unravels a web of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and clever deceptions. When two young gentlemen decide to adopt fictitious personas to escape the constraints of societal expectations, a whirlwind of hilarious misunderstandings ensues. As love interests collide and secret pasts are revealed, Wilde weaves a delightful tapestry of wit, absurdity, and biting satire.

July 25 - October 20, 2024
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The Merry Wives of Windsor 2024

In this uproarious comedy, Sir John Falstaff finds himself entangled in the shrewd schemes of two clever Windsor wives who unite to outwit one of Shakespeare's most endearing scoundrels. Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan domestic life and featuring an eclectic ensemble of zany characters, this irresistible comic confection weaves together romance and farce to create a joyful story of community and family.

September 12 – November 23
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Kenn Hopkins Jr. as Falstaff, dressed in period costume, holds a horned mask and strikes a dramatic pose. The title The Merry Wives of Windsor by William Shakespeare is displayed.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

In the treacherous mountains of Transylvania, a meek English real estate agent takes a harrowing journey to meet a new and mysterious client, who also just happens to be the most terrifying and ferocious monster the world has ever known: Count Dracula! Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors is a Bram-new comedy by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen filled with clever wordplay and anything-goes pop culture references. This 90-minute, gender-bending, quick-changing, laugh-out-loud take on Bram Stoker’s iconic story is perfect for audiences of all blood types.

October 17 – November 24
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A Christmas Carol 2024

The ultimate tale of transformation, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol transports miserly Ebenezer Scrooge high above the streets of Victorian London, where Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future haunt his dreams…accomplishing, in one fateful night, what a lifetime of grasping and greed could not do: the warming of his cold, cold heart. Join a holiday tradition beloved by families and friends of all ages!

December 5-29
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The Ghost of Christmas Present stands center stage at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, wearing a green velvet robe with white fur cuffs, a red belt, and a festive wreath crown. He holds a holiday staff. The text reads: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Jay McClure.

Friday Night Lights On

Friday Night Lights On is the perfect pre-show "appetizer" before enjoying the full meal that is an ASC production. FNLO is a series of engaging Friday night lectures, workshops, and panels featuring an exciting line-up of scholars, industry experts, ASC familiar faces, and powerful partnerships.

Fridays at 5 PM
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"No Kidding" Programs for Adults

 

 

"No Kidding" Programs happen throughout the year to give adult theatre lovers (ages 18+) the chance to read, rehearse, and perform classic plays. Join in the fun and perform on the Blackfriars stage along with ASC Education Artists and other special guests. Up next: No Kidding Shakespeare Camp's final staged reading on Aug 4!

Throughout 2024
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Playhouse Tours

Our ASC Education Tour Guides will take you up, down, and around the world's first re-creation of Shakespeare's indoor theatre and share secrets and anecdotes from the past and the present!

Year Round
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Virtual Playhouse Tour

Interested in exploring our beautiful Blackfriars Playhouse, but can't attend an in-person tour? Purchase access to our Virtual Playhouse Tour instead! You'll be able to learn about our modern theater and its historical predecessor—with added locations inaccessible to the public on in-person tours!

Year Round
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Bard & Bites 2024

Prepare to be dazzled as ASC joins forces with some of our favorite local bakeries and cafés to bring you an unparalleled show experience! Enjoy a snack box filled with local culinary delights during select performances throughout 2024. Pre-order is required for this snack box.

Select Sundays in 2024
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Shakespeare Uncorked

ASC has partnered with local wineries and breweries for a special pre-show experience. Enjoy a tasting of the best libations in the area in our upper lobby on select performance dates throughout the year.

Select Saturdays in 2024
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Halloween Night with Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

Spend Halloween night with the American Shakespeare Center for a show so funny, it's scary! Enter the Blackfriars Playhouse—if you dare—for a special showing of Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, a laugh-out-loud retelling of Bram Stoker's iconic vampire classic. Perfect for audiences of all blood types, join Count Dracula for a spooky night out like no other. Even better, tickets are available at a bloody good discount!

October 31, 2024
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Plan Your Trip to ASC:

Elevate Your Night with Bard & Bites

Add a delicious touch to your night at the Blackfriars Playhouse with the Bard & Bites Box! Enjoy local charcuterie, cheeses, fruits, and sweets from North Ridge Café. Available for pre-sale at $17—reserve by Friday before the show. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available.

Reserve Your Box

Friday Night Lights On at ASC

Looking for the ultimate kickstart to your theatre-filled weekend in Staunton, VA? Join us at the Blackfriars Playhouse on select Fridays throughout the year for an immersive series of lectures and panels designed to deepen your connection to the world of Shakespeare.

Plan Your Friday Night Escape

Meet Vanessa Morosco

Discover how Vanessa Morosco’s leadership as ASC’s new Executive Director will shape the future of the American Shakespeare Center. Explore her journey and the exciting new chapter ahead.

Read the Full Story

Your Support Matters

At ASC, your support does more than keep the lights on—it makes magic happen. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, each gift fuels performances, education, and community events. Your donation is the heartbeat that keeps live theatre alive, creating unforgettable moments and touching lives.

Donate to Make a Difference

Blackfriars Circle Membership

Join the Blackfriars Circle for priority seating, discounted tickets, and early access to events at the American Shakespeare Center. Get behind-the-scenes access, member-only gatherings, and personalized service—all while supporting the magic of live theatre. Share your passion and elevate your experience.

Learn More About Membership

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Have questions about your visit to the Blackfriars Playhouse?
Find everything you need on our general FAQ page, where we’ve compiled answers to the most common inquiries—whether it’s about tickets, seating, or what to expect during your theatre experience!

Visit our FAQ page