Download Your Calendar and Plan for an Unforgettable Season

Whether you’re a longtime ASC supporter or visiting for the first time, this season offers powerful storytelling, behind-the-scenes insights, and engaging events designed to connect audiences with live theatre.

Stay ahead of the action by downloading the Spring 2025 Calendar to keep track of show dates.

Download the Spring 2025 Performance Calendar Now

Your calendar has all the performance dates, but there’s even more happening this spring. From exclusive pre-show experiences to special events and in-depth workshops, here’s what you won’t want to miss at the Blackfriars Playhouse.

Opening Nights – Be Among the First to Experience These Productions

(Spring 2025 Season Promo. Photos by October Grace Media.)

Be part of the excitement as ASC launches the Spring 2025 Season with powerful performances, dynamic staging, and an immersive theatre experience.

• Friday, February 7 – Little Women (Opening Night)
  A fresh adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel, adapted by Erin Riley and directed by ASC veteran Constance Swain. Experience the March sisters’ journey in a production full of heart, humor, and the power of family.
• Saturday, February 15 – King Lear (Opening Night)
  Directed by Paul Barnes, this gripping tragedy explores loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. Witness Shakespeare’s most powerful drama as Lear’s decision to divide his kingdom sets off a storm of conflict that challenges family bonds and the limits of power.
• Friday, March 21 – The Comedy of Errors (Opening Night)
  Under the direction of veteran Actor Chris Johnston, this high-energy Shakespearean farce bursts to life with mistaken identities, slapstick humor, and fast-paced comedy. Get ready for an evening of nonstop laughter as two sets of twins create absolute chaos.

ASC opening nights are full of energy, engagement, and electricity as each production takes the stage.

Pre-Show Experiences – Food, Wine, and More

Elevate your Blackfriars experience with pre-show offerings that pair delicious flavors with world-class theatre.

Bard & Bites – A Perfect Pre-Show Treat

(Photo Credit: October Grace Media)

Enjoy a handcrafted charcuterie box from North Ridge Café before select performances. Pre-order these deliciously curated snacks for just $17 and savor every bite while you enjoy the show.

Upcoming Bard & Bites Events:

• Friday, February 14 – Little Women (Valentine’s Day Special)
• Select Sundays: February 16, March 2, March 23, April 6, & April 13

Special accommodations are available by request for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. All Bard & Bites Boxes must be reserved in advance.

Shakespeare Uncorked – Exclusive Wine & Beer Tastings

(Cheers to craft beer and Shakespeare! Guests at Shakespeare Uncorked 2023 enjoyed Devil’s Backbone brews while gathering for a night of theatre at the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, VA. Photo by October Grace Media.)

Sip on local wines and craft brews in the upper lobby before select Saturday performances.

Upcoming Tastings:

• Saturday, March 1 – 6:30 PM – Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery – Pair it with Little Women
• Saturday, April 12 – 6:30 PM – Brothers Craft Brewing – Pair it with The Comedy of Errors

These special pre-show events have limited availability—secure your spot today.

Shakespeare’s Birthday Week – A Brand-New Celebration

(Shakespeare’s Birthday Weekend Celebration. Photo Credit: Unknown)

April 21–26, 2025

For the first time, ASC is hosting a week-long celebration dedicated to Shakespeare at the Blackfriars Playhouse. This immersive event will feature special workshops, discussions, and interactive experiences, allowing audiences to engage with the Bard’s works in new ways.

What to expect:

• Hands-on Workshops with ASC artists and guest scholars
• Special Events for audiences of all ages
• Community Engagement Opportunities designed to bring theatre lovers together

This milestone event is not to be missed. Stay tuned for more details as they are announced.

Playhouse Tours & In-Depth Theatre Discussions

For those who love to dive deeper into the history, artistry, and mechanics of theatre, ASC offers exclusive educational and behind-the-scenes experiences. Dates and times may vary based on the Blackfriars Playhouse schedule.

Playhouse Tours – Step Inside the World of Shakespeare

Explore the history, architecture, and hidden details of the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.

Tour Schedule:

• Standard Tours: Wednesdays–Fridays at 2:00 PM, Fridays at 10:30 AM ($10)
• Extended Tours: Saturdays at 10:30 AM ($15)
• Virtual Playhouse Tour: Similar to our in-person tour, learn about our modern theater & its historical predecessor— with added locations inaccessible to the public! Your video link will be sent to you via email within 48 hours of purchase.

Lights ON Blackfriars – Illuminating Theatre. Igniting Discussion.

(Panel discussion during Lights ON Blackfriars (formerly Friday Night Lights ON) at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, featuring four speakers engaging in a lively conversation on stage. Photo by October Grace Media)

FNLO is now Lights ON Blackfriars—your pre-show deep dive into the plays and performances at ASC. Featuring Shakespeare scholars, theatre experts, and ASC artists, this series of insightful discussions, workshops, and panels unpacks the stories, staging, and themes that shape each production.

Upcoming Lights ON Blackfriars Events:

• Friday, February 7 – Spring Opener!
  • A Conversation about Little Women and King Lear with Directors Constance Swain and Paul Barnes and Little Women playwright Erin Riley
• Friday, March 7 – Meaning and Madness in King Lear with Dr. Susan Anderson
• Friday, April 4 – A Conversation with Chris Johnston, Director of The Comedy of Errors

Each event offers a deeper understanding of the artistry and themes behind the productions.

For Educators & Students – ASC Teacher Seminar & Student Matinees

ASC Teacher Seminar

(American Shakespeare Center Teacher Seminar. Photo by Lindsey Walters.)

ASC provides professional development opportunities for educators looking to bring Shakespeare’s works to life in the classroom.

The Spring 2025 ASC Foundational Teacher Seminar:

• Saturday, March 22, 2025 – Teaching through King Lear

This hands-on, interactive professional development event is designed for educators of all experience levels and provides practical tools for engaging students with Shakespeare’s works.

Student Matinees – Live Theatre for Young Audiences

(Student Matinee American Shakespeare Center Blackfriars Playhouse. Photo by Lindsey Walters.)

ASC offers weekday student matinee performances, making it easy for educators to bring Shakespeare to the classroom in an immersive way.

Spring 2025 Student Matinee Dates:

• King Lear
  • Wednesday, Feb. 19
  • Thursday, Feb. 27
  • Wednesday, Mar. 5
  • Wednesday, Apr. 2
  • Wednesday, Apr. 16
• Little Women
  • Thursday, Feb. 20
  • Wednesday, Feb. 26
  • Thursday, Mar. 6
  • Thursday, Mar. 13
  • Thursday, Apr. 10
• Comedy of Errors
  • Wednesday, Mar. 26
  • Thursday, Mar. 27
  • Thursday, Apr. 3
  • Wednesday, Apr. 9
  • Thursday, Apr. 17

Educators interested in booking a student matinee for their group can contact our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com or call 540-885-5588 ext. 115.

Plan Your Spring at Blackfriars – Download the Calendar Now

With so many exciting productions and exclusive events, the Spring 2025 Calendar is your must-have guide for making the most of the season.

• Stay informed on all show dates and times
• Plan ahead for Shakespeare’s Birthday Week
• Catch opening nights, talkbacks, and special events

Download your calendar now and start planning your visit to the Blackfriars Playhouse.

This season is shaping up to be one of ASC’s most exciting yet. Join us for world-class theatre, unforgettable experiences, and a Shakespeare celebration like no other.