Located in historic Staunton, Virginia, the American Shakespeare Center invites homeschooling families to immerse themselves in the worlds of King Lear and Little Women during Spring 2025 Homeschool Days.

At the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s first recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre, families can experience unforgettable matinee performances, engaging workshops, and post-show talkbacks that bring these classic stories to life.

student matinee american shakespeare center education
Josh Clark and Cordell Cole in ROMEO AND JULIET. Photo by Lindsey Walters.

 

What makes ASC special?

  • Interactive Learning Experiences in Staunton: Workshops designed to build essential life skills like public speaking, creative writing, critical thinking, and collaboration through engaging playwriting, performance, and literary analysis activities.
  • Exclusive Theatre Performances at the Blackfriars Playhouse: Ignite imaginations and inspire a lifelong love of the arts with ASC’s world-class productions, performed in the world’s first re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.
  • Actor Engagement and Post-Show Talkbacks: Build confidence, communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for theatre as students connect with professional actors in dynamic, interactive conversations after the performance.

Nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, ASC’s Homeschool Days offer a transformative educational experience perfect for students of all ages.

Spring 2025 Homeschool Days Schedule

This spring, join us for two exciting Homeschool Day experiences:

Shakespeare's King Lear production, Spring 2025 at the American Shakespeare Center. Close-up of a crown being placed on a character’s head, with ornate rings visible on hands positioning the crown. Dramatic dark background with title text: 'King Lear by William Shakespeare.

February 19 – King Lear Homeschool Day
Matinee Performance of King Lear
Workshop: “Direction and Misdirection in King Lear”

Corrie Green models as a character from Little Women for the American Shakespeare Center's Spring 2025 Season, dressed in a plaid shawl and a blue skirt, intently writing in a leather-bound notebook with a quill. The image, taken by October Grace Media, captures a reflective and timeless moment against a black background. The Text Reads Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Adapted By Erin Riley.

February 26 – Little Women Homeschool Day
Matinee Performance of Little Women
Workshop: “Masterpiece Remix”

Typical Homeschool Day Schedule

Plan your day at the American Shakespeare Center. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your day at the American Shakespeare Center:

    • 10:00 AM: Doors Open to the Blackfriars Playhouse
      • 10:15 AM: Pre-show music begins for select performances
    • 10:30 AM: Matinee Performance (recommended for ages 7 and up)
      • Run Time: Blackfriars Playhouse performances typically run between 2 – 2.5 hours.
      • Post-Show: Actor Talkback is included with your Student Matinee Tickets. Attendance is optional.
      • Break for Lunch: Lunch isn’t provided, but we’ve listed some great local options below.
      • Post-Lunch (Time TBD): Add a Workshop or Playhouse Tour to your field trip (recommended for ages 8 and up)

Lunch Options for Homeschool Days

Please Note: Food and drink are not permitted inside the Playhouse. Plan to enjoy your meal before or after the performance, and store picnics in your car or bus.

Lunch is not included, but you can choose from nearby options like Mary Baldwin University’s dining hall, the Woodrow Wilson Gardens for a picnic, or family-friendly restaurants in downtown Staunton. See below for more details on each option.

MBU Campus Dining: A Taste of College Life

Location: Mary Baldwin University (just minutes from the Blackfriars Playhouse)
Perfect for groups of all sizes—from 10 to 100 or more—Mary Baldwin University’s dining hall offers a hearty buffet with plenty of options to suit every taste, including accommodations for dietary restrictions and food allergies. We kindly ask you to book at least 15 days in advance and share any dietary needs with our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com

Picnic Like a President in the Woodrow Wilson Gardens

Location: Woodrow Wilson Gardens, a short walk from the Playhouse
Bring your lunch to the serene and historic Woodrow Wilson Gardens, the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson. Surrounded by greenery, it’s the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the charm of Staunton, Virginia. Store your picnic in your car or bus until ready to eat.

Dine in Historic Downtown Staunton

Location: Staunton’s Historic District
Staunton offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, from charming cafés to farm-to-table restaurants and international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick sandwich or a gourmet meal, downtown has it all. Explore the Staunton Dining Guide for recommendations, and don’t forget to make reservations if you’re dining with a larger group.

 

About the Workshops

Our workshops ignite creativity and foster essential skills like public speaking, critical thinking, creative writing, and collaboration. Through engaging activities, students build confidence, develop adaptability, and strengthen communication—all while discovering the magic of storytelling and performance. Each session provides a fresh way to connect with timeless stories, transforming classic works with their unique perspectives and growing skills that shine on and off the stage.

Little Academe photographed at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia on 12-19-16.Photo by Pat Jarrett.
Little Academe photographed at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia, on 12-19-16.Photo by Pat Jarrett.

 

“Direction and Misdirection in King Lear” -February 19

This engaging workshop introduces students to the power of stage directions in storytelling. Through exploration of key scenes, participants will discover how directors and actors use stage movement to bring to life King Lear’s themes of loyalty, deception, and betrayal.

“Masterpiece Remix” – February 26

In this creative playwriting workshop, students will adapt a scene from Little Women. By bringing their unique voices to this beloved story, participants will learn the art of adaptation and performance, making the story their own.

Content Considerations for Homeschool Days

 

Content Considerations for King Lear

Shakespeare’s King Lear is a masterful exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the resilience of the human spirit. This timeless story, though celebrated for its emotional depth and dramatic power, includes mature themes that may be intense for younger audiences. While this production is recommended for ages 7 and up, parents may want to consider the following elements before attending:

  • Complex Family Dynamics: The play delves into challenging relationships between parents and children, touching on themes of betrayal, loyalty, and reconciliation.
  • Dramatic Depictions of Violence: Some scenes include physical confrontations and injuries, portrayed to emphasize the stakes and emotional tension of the story.
  • Emotional Struggles and Madness: The characters experience profound grief, despair, and moments of mental distress, which are handled with sensitivity but may feel intense.
  • Themes of Loss and Mortality: References to and depictions of loss, including death, are woven throughout the narrative.
  • Social Inequalities: The play reflects on societal hierarchies, discrimination, and inequities that may prompt deeper conversations.
  • Scenes of War and Its Consequences: Moments depicting the aftermath of conflict and its emotional toll are present.

King Lear invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of the human experience, offering moments of heartbreak and redemption. We encourage parents to consider their child’s comfort with these elements and use discretion when deciding to attend.

Content Considerations for Little Women

Little Women is a cherished story of love, family, and resilience that has touched hearts for generations. This production is recommended for ages 7 and up and is generally family-friendly, but parents may wish to consider the following elements:

  • War and Separation: The story takes place during the Civil War and includes references to the challenges of war and the absence of loved ones.
  • Illness and Death: The play portrays serious illness, including a character’s extended struggle with scarlet fever, as well as the loss of a family member, which may feel emotional for some viewers.
  • Financial Struggles: Themes of poverty and sacrifice are present as the March family works together to overcome economic challenges.
  • Gender Expectations: The play reflects the societal limitations placed on women in the 19th century, exploring topics such as ambition, marriage, and independence

Little Women is a heartfelt celebration of love, growth, and perseverance. However, parents are encouraged to consider their child’s comfort with the story’s more serious themes when deciding to attend. For younger viewers, discussing these moments beforehand can help them connect with the play’s timeless lessons on love, resilience, and the strength of family bonds.

Playhouse Policies: What You Need to Know

 

Much Ado About Nothing, 2020 Actors' Renaissance Season at the Blackfriars Playhouse.

Much Ado About Nothing, 2020 Actors’ Renaissance Season at the Blackfriars Playhouse.

  • Youth Admission Policy
    We love welcoming young audiences to the world of theatre! To ensure the best experience for everyone, please note the following age guidelines:

    • Performances: Ages 7 and up.
    • A Christmas Carol & Sensory-Friendly Performances: Ages 3 and up.
    • Children under 3: Unfortunately, children under 3, including lap infants, cannot be admitted to any performance.

    Not sure if a show is right for your group? We’re happy to help! Call us at 540.885.5588 Ext. 115

  • Phones: All cell phones must be turned off during performances to ensure the safety of our actors and the integrity of the show. Bright screens or unexpected sounds can be distracting and may create hazards on stage. Teachers and chaperones may keep their phones on silent for emergencies but should step into the lobby to make or take calls.
  • Personal Photography: Photography and videography are not permitted during the performance to protect the actors and maintain the experience for all attendees. However, groups are welcome to take photos after the actors have cleared the stage to capture your visit at the Blackfriars Playhouse.
  • Photo Notice: Our Marketing Team may be capturing photos and videos during the performance and of your group for future promotional use. If any individuals in your group cannot be photographed, please inform our Group Sales Team in advance at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com.
  • Backpacks and Packed Lunches: Large bags, backpacks, and packed lunches are not allowed inside the Playhouse. Chaperones may bring purse-sized bags or medical supplies. Please store other items on your bus or in your vehicle before entering.
  • Outside Food and Drink: Outside food and beverages, including sealed water bottles, are not permitted in the Playhouse or lobby. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase at our upstairs snack bar, and a water fountain is available for your convenience.

For more information, please visit our Ticket Policies.

Bus Parking Options for Educational Groups

We’re here to help ensure your group arrives at the playhouse and gets parked with plenty of time to enjoy the show!

Bus Parking:

  • Market Street: There are three designated bus parking spots available on Market Street, just steps from the Blackfriars Playhouse.
  • The Blackburn Inn: Once Market Street spots are full, buses should drop students off at the theater and then park at The Blackburn Inn. This spacious and accessible parking area is less than a 5-minute drive or a 12-minute walk to the playhouse.
  • Microbuses: Microbuses can park in the Staunton Hardy Lot, located less than a block from the playhouse.

Bus parking details, including maps, will be emailed to your group a week before your visit. If you have questions, contact our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com or 540.885.5588 ext. 115.

Car and Van Parking:

  • We recommend parking individual cars and vans at the New Street Parking Garage, a short walk from the playhouse.
  • Limited free street parking is available nearby, but most spaces have a two-hour time limit—please plan accordingly.

Book Your Homeschool Day Today!

Reserve your tickets for King Lear and Little Women Homeschool Days this February, and let your homeschool students experience the magic of theatre, creativity, and classic literature at the American Shakespeare Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Blackfriars Playhouse is the world’s first re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre, located in Staunton, Virginia. It offers an authentic, one-of-a-kind theatre experience that combines history, artistry, and immersive storytelling.

The Blackfriars Playhouse is located in downtown Staunton, Virginia, a picturesque city in the Shenandoah Valley. Easily accessible and perfect for homeschool groups, Staunton is just a short drive from:

  • Charlottesville, VA: 45 minutes
  • Harrisonburg, VA: 30 minutes
  • Richmond, VA: 2 hours
  • Roanoke, VA: 1.5 hours
  • Washington, D.C.: 2.5 hours

Staunton’s central location makes it an ideal destination for homeschool families looking to combine an enriching theatre experience with an educational day trip.

Tickets and information can be obtained by contacting our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com. They are happy to help with bookings, dining arrangements, or any additional questions.

Yes, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

  • Phones: All phones must be turned off during performances; emergencies can be handled in the lobby.
  • Food and Drink: No outside food or drink is allowed inside the Playhouse, including sealed water bottles.
  • Banana Allergy Warning: Due to a severe staff allergy, no banana products are permitted onsite.

For more details, please review our Ticket Policies.

Each Homeschool Day includes:

  • A morning matinee performance at the Blackfriars Playhouse.
  • A post-show talkback with ASC actors, offering insight into performance, character development, and the world of theatre.
  • A hands-on workshop that brings the featured play to life through interactive learning.

Matinee performances are recommended for students aged 7 and up. ASC Workshops are designed for ages 8 and up, offering an engaging and interactive learning experience.

The plays featured in our Homeschool Days are recommended for ages 7 and up, but every family is different. Parents are encouraged to review our content considerations for each production to determine what’s best for their child. These timeless stories explore meaningful themes, offering rich opportunities for learning and engagement.

Whether it’s the emotional depth of King Lear or the heartfelt resilience of Little Women, our productions provide moments of inspiration and discovery for young audiences while balancing age-appropriate storytelling.

Lunch is not provided, but you have plenty of nearby options:

Dine in Downtown Staunton: Explore family-friendly restaurants and cafés. Visit the Staunton Dining Guide for options.

Please check with the Blackfriars Playhouse staff for the specific return time to ensure all workshop participants are back and ready to begin on schedule.

“Direction and Misdirection in King Lear” (February 19)

This engaging workshop introduces students to the power of stage directions in storytelling. Through exploration of key scenes, participants will discover how directors and actors use stage movement to bring to life King Lear’s themes of loyalty, deception, and betrayal.

“Masterpiece Remix” (February 26)

In this creative playwriting workshop, students will adapt a scene from Little Women. By bringing their unique voices to this beloved story, participants will learn the art of adaptation and performance, making the story their own.

No, parents and guardians do not need to purchase a ticket for the workshop. However, we do ask that you observe from the Blackfriars Playhouse seats as your child learns and performs onstage during this engaging workshop experience.

The Blackfriars Playhouse is an accessible venue. Please contact our Group Sales Team(groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com) in advance if your student needs specific accommodations, such as wheelchair seating or sensory adjustments, so we can make your visit as comfortable as possible.

Staunton offers convenient parking options to make your visit hassle-free, whether you’re arriving in a car, van, or bus!

  • Cars and Vans: Park at the New St. parking garage ($1.25/hour or $7.50/day) or look for free street parking (2-hour limit).
  • Buses: Drop students off at the Playhouse and park on Market Street or at the Blackburn Inn.

Yes! Homeschool co-ops and larger groups are encouraged to attend. Contact our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com for group bookings, pricing, and additional information.

 Visit our full FAQ page.