festival events
All performances and festival events take place at the new home of the Great River Shakespeare Festival, The ARC: Home of the Historic Masonic Theatre, 255 Main Street, Winona. Visit arcwinona.org to learn more. Welcome to our new location!
before the show
Arrive early for these pre-show events on the first floor of The ARC.
pre-show performances
About 45 minutes before the start of each play, actors will present scenes to tune your ear to Shakespeare’s verse. Pre-show performances will end with an entertaining introduction to the characters, plot, and world of the play you are about to see.
food and drinks
Arrive early and enjoy a variety of foods and beverages (including beer, wine, and mixed drinks) before the show. Seating is available inside on the first floor of The ARC.
Looking for somewhere to eat around town? See our list of local restaurants.
During the show
Accessibility services are available
The festival can accommodate accessibility needs at any performance with advance notice. However, if you are looking to join with a community that shares your accessibility needs, Friday matinees at 1:00 are the time for you.
The first two Friday matinees are fidget friendly. These performances will have adjustments to accommodate those who may struggle to sit quietly through an entire performance and those who have sensory concerns. The final two Friday matinees will be interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL) and audio described live for the blind (via headset).
Those who would benefit from these services are encouraged to discuss their needs with the box office personnel when ordering tickets so that special seating requests can be accommodated.
Accessibility services are sponsored by MERCHANTS BANK.
after the show
One of the best parts of all theater is the conversation that happens after the show. Join us for some formal and informal discussions with the artists who create the season’s productions.
ICE Cream Socials
FRIDAY and SATURDAY EVENINGS
Join us right after the show every Friday and Saturday night for a free frozen treat. Mingle with the cast and crew, and share your experiences of the plays with your fellow audience members.
Ice Cream Socials are sponsored by MILLER SCRAP.
company conversations
SUNDAY MORNINGS
Grab a coffee and snack and settle in for a conversation with our company about the plays and life in the theater. Company Conversations take place on the first floor of The ARC and on Facebook Live (facebook.com/GreatRiverShakes). This is a free event.
Company Conversations are sponsored by GREG AND TERRI EVANS and MARY ALICE ANDERSON.
post-show talkbacks
THURSDAY EVENINGS
Stay in your seat after the show and meet the cast who just performed! Our actors and crew will share what goes on behind the scenes and how we bring our productions all the way from page to stage. This is a free event.
Post-Show Talkbacks are sponsored by DR. SALLY SLOAN.