American Shakespeare Center

Performing ArtsUnited States51-200 Employees

The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a leading nonprofit theatre company and home to the first-ever recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia. ASC brings Shakespeare’s works and other classic theatre to life with dynamic performances that embrace the original practices of the English Renaissance stage.

Through our commitment to artistic innovation, we offer a repertory theatre model that gives audiences the rare opportunity to experience multiple productions in rotation. Our performances are designed to engage, educate, and inspire, while remaining deeply rooted in the inclusive, interactive nature of Shakespeare’s original productions.

We believe theatre is for everyone. ASC fosters accessibility by offering Pay-What-You-Will performances, discounts for veterans, and a range of educational programs, ensuring that live theatre can be enjoyed by all. Our community outreach, including student matinees, workshops, and partnerships with local businesses, helps create a vibrant, engaged audience both locally and internationally.

As a beacon for transformative theatre experiences, ASC is dedicated to empowering education, providing students with the opportunity to explore Shakespeare’s works through immersive, hands-on learning. Whether it's through our student matinees, summer camps, or adult drama clubs, we strive to make the power of theatre accessible to the next generation of storytellers.

Join us at the Blackfriars Playhouse for a truly unforgettable theatre experience. Whether you're a lifelong Shakespeare enthusiast or discovering the magic of live theatre for the first time, ASC invites you to step into a world where the past and present collide on stage, bringing Shakespeare's timeless stories to life for all.

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