Your step-by-step guide to a theatre-filled summer weekend
Become the hero of your friends and family by planning an epic weekend at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The legendary company’s summer season is officially open — that means longer days to adventure around the beautiful small town of Ashland that the theatre has called home for nearly a century, and warmer nights to take in the two classic plays opening in their outdoor theatre: Much Ado About Nothing and Jane Eyre.
In fact, with the proper planning, you can enjoy up to seven shows in just one long weekend! By mid-summer, enough shows will be open and activities running for you to pack your favorite Oregon activities — dining at local restaurants, touring (and tasting from) Rogue Valley wineries, and experiencing world-class art — into one ultimate weekend. Curate the perfect trip that works with your schedule. And just to give you a helping hand, here’s a sample itinerary (that works for August 8 – 11, 2024 😉) to get you started:
Thursday:
LUNCH
Our recommendation: Lovejoy’s Tea Room
Step into a whole new world at Lovejoy’s Tea Room, a cozy nook offering tea service, a delicious menu, and a warm environment like no other.
1:30 pm - Macbeth
Shakespeare’s revered tragedy reveals the underbelly of ambition in a world steeped in power mongering, war, and magic.
5:30 pm - Preface: Coriolanus
Before enjoying the next show, check out a dynamic, in-depth 30-minute conversation about Shakespeare’s rarely produced tragedy, Coriolanus.
DINNER
Our recommendation: Alchemy Restaurant and Bar
Just a 5-minute walk away from OSF. Indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey of exquisite flavors.
8:00 pm - Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre embarks on a new life as a governess. But as she falls in love with her employer, she discovers that he—and his home—are surrounded by dark secrets.
Friday:
BREAKFAST
Our recommendation: Brothers Restaurant
Start your day in a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu to fuel the rest of your OSF adventures.
1:30 pm - Born with Teeth
In this razor-sharp dark comedy, William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe go head-to-head, fighting, flirting, and festering while collaborating on a play.
3:30 pm - Post-show talkback: Born with Teeth
Enjoy this casual discussion with an informed facilitator that will deepen your connection with the show you just saw. Free with your ticket!
DINNER
Our recommendation: Taj Indian Cuisine
Experience dining at Taj Indian Cuisine, where authentic big-world flavors meet Ashland’s small-town charm.
8:00 pm - Much Ado About Nothing
Love is in the air, even as two of history’s most tumultuous couples volley hilarious quips and damning accusations. Will the truth win in this dazzling, music-filled production?
Saturday:
8:30 am - Ashland Saturday Growers’ Market, Oak Street (between Main and Lithia)
The “fruit, flower & veggie mecca for tourists and locals alike.” Start the morning with a sample of incredible berries or a yummy pastry.
BRUNCH
Our recommendation: Hither
Continue with breakfast at Hither. This local spot makes everything in-house, carrying on traditions from the old world and marrying them with the food culture of Oregon today.
1:30 pm - Coriolanus
A war hero steps into the spotlight to serve his nation, only to turn on it and seek its overthrow. This modern translation features a cast of female and non-binary actors.
6:00 pm - DINNER
Our recommendation: Chateaubriand 36
Nestled in downtown Ashland, Chateaubriand 36 stands as the premier French steakhouse experience.
8:00 pm - Behfarmaheen (If You Please)
Enjoy Barzin Akhavan’s autobiographical one-man show about journeying from Iran to America and getting caught in the cultural divide.
Sunday:
11:00 am - Lithia Artisans Market
Browse the collections of regional artists and craftspeople exhibiting and selling their work in this beloved open-air market that has been around since 1984!
1:30 pm - Lizard Boy
Can Trevor—a lonesome outsider with green, scaly skin—accept who he is and save his city in this funny, quirky musical?
5:00 pm - Irvine & Roberts Vineyards
Drink in the sunset on a stunning outdoor patio at Irvine & Roberts Vineyards. This family-owned gem overlooks expansive vineyards and features an exquisite tasting room so there’s no shortage of relaxation or sipping (not necessarily in that order!).
