Oregon Shakespeare Festival Guide
Experience World-Class Theatre in Ashland Guide
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is a renowned regional repertory theatre in Ashland, Oregon, dedicated to producing a wide range of plays, from Shakespearean classics to contemporary works. Nestled in the beautiful Rogue Valley, OSF offers a unique cultural experience for theatre lovers of all ages. With multiple stages and a diverse company of actors, directors, and designers, OSF consistently delivers high-quality productions that entertain, challenge, and inspire. Founded in 1935 by Angus Bowmer, OSF began as a small summer festival focused solely on Shakespearean plays. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest and most respected theatre companies in the United States. The festival's commitment to artistic excellence, innovation, and community engagement has earned it numerous awards and accolades, including a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. The original Elizabethan Stage, inspired by the Globe Theatre, remains a central part of the OSF experience. Visitors to OSF can enjoy a variety of activities beyond attending performances. Take a backstage tour to learn about the inner workings of the theatre, participate in pre-show discussions with scholars and artists, or explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the theatres. Ashland itself is a charming town with a vibrant arts scene, offering opportunities for dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation. While Ashland doesn't have a specific culinary tradition tied directly to OSF, the town boasts a diverse range of restaurants catering to all tastes, from farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors.
Transportation
Ashland is accessible by car via Interstate 5. The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is the closest airport, about a 30-minute drive away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. Within Ashland, the festival theatres are within walking distance of many hotels and restaurants. The Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) provides bus service throughout the Rogue Valley, including Ashland. Route 10 serves the downtown area.