Family Friendly Shakespeare Performances + Tips
/ Ronnie SharpeTo see, or not to see, that is the question: Whether 'tis comedy or tragedy; your budding Bard will be delighted to experience Shakespeare performances in an outdoor setting. Break out the picnic blanket for all these great opportunities to catch quality, engaging and accessible Shakespeare performances for the entire family to enjoy.
A bewitching all-female production staged in San Francisco's historic fortress beneath the Golden Gate Bridge
This fresh adaptation, funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, promises to ignite the imaginations of young audiences and remind them of the power of great storytelling to transcend time and place.
This fresh adaptation, funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, promises to ignite the imaginations of young audiences and remind them of the power of great storytelling to transcend time and place.
Banished to a mystical island, Prospero has spent years honing his magical powers. Driven by a thirst for vengeance, he conjures a powerful storm to wreck a passing ship carrying his enemies, who soon find themselves at the mercy of his supernatural abilities.
A Midsummer Night's Dream, adapted and directed by Bridgette Loriaux (2023’s Twelfth Night) reimagines Shakespeare’s most magical play through a musical and movement-driven contemporary lens, offering a celebration of love, connection, and the endless possibilities for transformation on this earth.
In collaboration with Play On Shakespeare, this groundbreaking three-week festival presents six teams of artists exploring and reenvisioning world classics with interactive public events, inviting audiences to witness the evolution of classic narratives and engage in conversations about their relevance today.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
Richard of Gloucester longs to be King and his ambition threatens the lives of all those around him. Manipulation, deceit, and cold-blooded murder take the stage as he claws his way to the crown.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
The Curtain Theatre provides free outdoor theater during the summer in Old Mill Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
Nationally renowned artist Matthew Graham Smith directs and adapts this profound tale of power, magic, and the possibility of second chances.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
San Francisco Shakespeare Festival is pleased to announce the outstanding cast of the 43rd season of Free Shakespeare in the Park.
Tips for Taking Kids to See Shakespeare
Age Recommendations Vary
The right age for Shakespeare performances depends on your child. I started taking my daughter when she was 4, and now, as a college student, she looks forward to these performances every year. While she didn’t always understand the language fully, she could follow the story. Consider how long your child can sit and stay engaged when choosing the performance.Pre-Discussion is Key
While children may not fully grasp the dialog, they can still enjoy the action. Talking about the story beforehand will help them understand the main characters and plot, making the experience more enjoyable.Eat, Drink, and Be Mindful
Feel free to bring a picnic or purchase food at the performance, but avoid crunchy snacks like chips and crackers as they can be distracting to others. Try to save these for intermission or before the show starts.Respect Nature
Always keep your food covered when not in use and make sure to properly dispose of trash and recyclables. Let's be kind to the environment!Dress Comfortably
Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, and don’t forget water and sunscreen, especially if the performance is outdoors.Be Considerate of Others
We’re fortunate to enjoy these performances with our community. Infants and toddlers are always welcome, but if your child becomes restless, please have one parent or guardian ready to take them outside for a break to avoid disturbing others.
What happens when famous influencers get dropped into a Shakespeare play?