No Kidding Shakespeare Camp

July 24-31, 2023

Ever wanted to live the life of a Shakespearean actor? Now’s your chance!


The American Shakespeare Center began a tradition in 2010, when our inaugural No Kidding Shakespeare Camp welcomed folks from all walks of life to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and for a week of plays and playing. Now, we’re excited to bring that “seriously fun” tradition back to the Blackfriars Playhouse in 2023!


About the Program

Adult thespians of all experience levels are invited to spend a week strutting and fretting their hour upon the stage at the American Shakespeare Center’s No Kidding Shakespeare Camp. This weeklong program blends performance training with academic enrichment, giving participants a chance to hone their craft while learning about Shakespeare’s staging conditions in the world’s only recreation of his indoor theatre, the Blackfriars Playhouse. Led by our world-class Programming team, you will get a crash course in all the skills that ASC actors use in professional productions in a low-stakes, Renaissance-style (ensemble directed), week-long rehearsal process culminating in a staged reading performance of William Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew in the Blackfriars Playhouse at the end of the week. Perfect for both seasoned performers and enthusiastic amateurs.

Tuition is $1,300 for day campers, and covers instruction and show tickets.

Tuition is $2,200 for campers who elect the “residential” option hosted at The Hotel 24 South, which covers the above in addition to lodging and meals.

Please note: participants must register by June 1, 2023 in order to select the residential package option. Limited quantities available, first-come, first-served.

Discounts are available for teachers; email education@americanshakespearecenter.com for details.
Registration requires a $150 non-refundable tuition payment. Participants will receive a link to a personalized payment form in their registration confirmation email, which they may use to make interest-free payments of any amount towards their outstanding balance at any time. Tuition must be paid in full no later than July 10, 2023. Participants may also choose to pay in full at the time of registration.

NKSC is an in-person program, taking place in Staunton, VA. We have classroom and rehearsal spaces all over the downtown area, including at the Blackfriars Playhouse.

The dates for NKSC 2023 are July 24-31, 2023.

NKSC is a day program, with activities running roughly 9am-6pm, though some evenings will run later due to optional show attendance at the Blackfriars Playhouse and other social activities.
Residential packages are available for out-of-town campers.

Adults ages 18+ with an interest in Shakespeare and/or performance. No prior experience necessary.