Bring your students to the American Shakespeare Center’s Student Matinees in Staunton, Virginia

Bring your education group to the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s first re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre. These unforgettable matinee performances include engaging post-show talkbacks, free study guides for select Shakespeare titles, and opportunities to bring these timeless stories to life for your students.

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What Makes a Field Trip to the Blackfriars Playhouse Special?

topher embrey sense and sensibility american shakespeare center

Topher Embrey in SENSE AND SENSIBILITY. Photo by Tommy Thompson.

  • Immersive Theatre Performances: Step into Shakespeare’s world with performances on a thrust stage, shared light, and minimal sets. Breaking the fourth wall, these interactive productions connect students to the artistry of live theatre for an unforgettable and inspiring experience.
  • Actor Talkbacks: After the performance, students can talk with professional actors, building confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of theatre. Talkbacks are $100 each and require at least three months’ notice to coordinate with the actors and stage management.
  • Shakespeare Study Guides for Educators: Free with most Student Matinee bookings. These guides help you prepare students for the performance and continue the learning afterward.

Nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, the American Shakespeare Center’s Student Matinees offer a transformative educational experience for students studying Shakespeare, classic literature, and live theatre.

“A wonderful, transformative experience! This was my third time bringing a group of undergraduates to the ASC, and [it has] never been more engaging and educational. The workshops, lectures, and performances were so thought-provoking and exciting that they provided discussion not only during our stay in Staunton, but also…during our class meetings the following week. I can’t wait for the next opportunity to bring a group of students to the ASC!”

Don-John Dugas, Kent State University

Frequently Asked Questions

A 50% non-refundable deposit for in-person shows is due 14 days after receiving the deposit invoice. Your seating priority is based on the date your deposit is received.

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For in-person performances, we request your final headcount 14 days prior to your visit.

For in-person student matinees that take place in the morning, immediately following the performance, a small group of actors convene on the stage and answer your students’ questions. This engaging opportunity lasts for 15 minutes after the conclusion of the performance.

Add-on Educational Experiences and Tours

Yes! The American Shakespeare Center hosts dedicated Homeschool Days—the perfect blend of live theatre and educational enrichment.

Each event includes a daytime performance at the Blackfriars Playhouse and an optional interactive workshop led by our professional Education Team.

Designed for homeschool students and families, these events offer a unique opportunity to experience Shakespeare’s works in an engaging, accessible way while connecting with a like-minded learning community.

Learn about Homeschool Days.

If any groups are interested in seeing shows with us, taking a playhouse tour, or participating in a workshop, but find the cost prohibitive, please have them fill out this financial aid application as soon as possible. I’d love to help as many people as possible enjoy our excellent programming.

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