The world-famous annual Utah Shakespearean Festival is the recipient of the 2000 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theater. Not only are the staging and performances strong, the enthusiasm of the players and the host town is contagious and really makes the festival a come alive.

Each year three different Shakespeare plays are presented along with works from other renowned playwrights. Works are put on in an authentic outdoor Elizabethan stage on the Southern Utah State campus and in the contemporary Randall Jones Theatre across the street. Both matinees and evening performances are given, and usually sell out, so advance reservations are recommended. Tickets cost from $23 to $66.

The festival's 2009 Summer Season runs from June 29 to August 29, and the 2009 Fall Season runs from September 18 to October 17. The plays to be performed are:

Summer Season - June 29 to August 29

Foxfire

Fall Season - September 18 to October 17

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)

The Woman in Black

Tuesdays with Morrie

In addition to the plays, the festival is full of other activities.

The Greenshow, performed daily by costumed actors, includes Elizabethan comedy skits, musicians, jugglers, Punch and Judy shows and the like. (Free)

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to produce a major dramatic production? Well, our Backstage Tours can answer all your questions

If you have ever wanted to voice an opinion about Festival plays, their interpretation, and subtle nuances (or to hear the opinions of others), the Literary Seminar is for you.

Well-done brochures containing details about the festival are available at tourist offices throughout Utah or you can contact the Utah Shakespearean Festival:

351 West Center Street
Cedar City, UT 84720
Phone: 435-586-7880

For tickets:
Toll Free: 800-752-9849
Local: 435-586-7878