Your Ultimate Guide to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF)
If you’re planning a trip to Southern Oregon, one experience you absolutely can’t miss is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Held annually in the charming town of Ashland, OSF is more than just theater—it’s a cultural experience that brings people together worldwide to celebrate the power of storytelling.
Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or simply curious about what makes OSF so special, this guide has everything you need to plan the perfect visit.
What Is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival?
Founded in 1935, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious regional theater companies in the United States. While rooted in Shakespearean tradition, OSF is far from all ruffles and iambic pentameter. The festival offers diverse productions, including contemporary plays, bold reinterpretations of the classics, and new works from emerging playwrights.
📍 Location: Multiple theaters in downtown Ashland
📅 Season: Typically runs February through October
Learn more: www.osfashland.org
The Venues
OSF hosts performances in several unique spaces:
- Angus Bowmer Theatre – The main indoor theater, perfect for grand productions.
- Thomas Theatre – A versatile, intimate space that often hosts cutting-edge new works.
- Allen Elizabethan Theatre – An open-air venue styled like a classic Shakespearean stage. A magical spot on a warm summer night!
2025 Season Highlights
Here are just a few must-see shows from the 2025 season lineup:
- Shane – A stage adaptation of the iconic Western, reimagined with theatrical flair.
- Quixote Nuevo – A modern take on Don Quixote, set on the US-Mexico border.
- As You Like It – Shakespeare’s romantic comedy in an innovative new staging.
- The Tempest – A breathtaking production featuring immersive visual effects.
🎟️ Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance—popular shows and weekends sell out fast!
Reserve online: www.osfashland.org/tickets
More Than Theater: The OSF Experience
Visiting OSF means more than just seeing a play. Here’s what else you’ll enjoy:
- The Green Show – Free pre-show outdoor performances held in the summer.
- Backstage Tours – Go behind the scenes and learn how the magic happens.
- Post-Show Discussions – Participate in conversations with the cast and creatives.
What to Do Before & After the Show
Ashland is a vibrant town filled with great food, local wine, boutique shopping, and outdoor beauty.
- Grab dinner at restaurants like Alchemy or Hearsay before your show.
- Walk through Lithia Park for a peaceful stroll just steps from the theaters.
- Sample local wines at Weisinger Family Winery or Belle Fiore Estate.
Check out our top Ashland recs: Top 10 Things to Do in Ashland in the Summer
Where to Stay: Obsidian Vacation Homes
Make the most of your OSF experience by staying in a stylish, comfortable vacation rental just minutes from the theaters.
✨ Why Obsidian Vacation Homes?
- Walkable locations near downtown Ashland
- Beautifully designed, fully furnished properties
- Personalized service and local recommendations
Whether you’re coming for one show or the entire weekend, we’ve got the perfect place to call home while you’re here.
👉 Browse our homes and book now at www.obsidianvacationhomes.com
Curtain Call
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is more than a theater—it’s a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community. Whether you’re drawn by Shakespeare, modern drama, or simply the charm of Ashland, OSF is a summer tradition worth experiencing.
Don’t wait—plan your trip now, and let Obsidian Vacation Homes be your home base for unforgettable memories.