What is Shakespeare in the Park?

Shakespeare in the Park is the Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s flagship program and a longstanding Nashville tradition! Held annually since 1988, Shakespeare in the Park is a pay-what-you-will, donation-based event that features professional outdoor productions of Shakespeare’s plays. For decades, hundreds of thousands of community members have enjoyed experiencing theatre under the stars in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

What if I am new to Shakespeare? Will I “get” it?

Don’t worry — many people find Shakespeare much easier to understand when you see it live! These plays were written to be performed, and our talented actors bring the stories to life with expressions, movement, and emotion that make the meaning clear. You don’t need to know every word to enjoy the story, and we promise you’ll connect with the humor, drama, and timeless themes. We invite you to come and experience for yourself - you might be surprised!

Where is Shakespeare in the Park located?

Shakespeare in the Park is performed at the Bandshell at Centennial Park. It is on the side of the park bordering bordering 25th Avenue N near the lake and walking trail.

Centennial Park is very centrally located and easy to access by car, walking, or public transit. You can visit the WeGo website to learn more about how it can be accessed via bus.

There will be lots of signs and banners pointing you in the right direction! There will be two controlled entrances into the seating area and plenty of volunteers on hand to help you find the best seating and to help you with any questions.

What should I bring?

Shakespeare in the Park is a lovely way for family and friends to enjoy each other. Bleacher seating is set up for guests, but many people prefer to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs. There will be food, cold drinks, alcoholic beverages, and snacks available to purchase when you arrive either at the Nashville Shakespeare Festival Merch Tent or at the food trucks. You are welcome to bring your own food, if you prefer. Be sure to bring money for food, and your $20 per person suggested donation (please). All vendors and the Festival accept credit cards.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes! Dogs on leashes are welcome!

Where should I set up when I arrive?

In order to ensure the best view for everyone in the audience, we have designated the section of grass immediately in front of the stage for people wishing to sit on blankets; the next area back is for lawn and beach chairs; and finally bleachers are available toward the back of the arena. Please be mindful when picking your seat to prevent blocking the view of those sitting behind you.

How much does it cost to see the show?

Thanks to the generous support of our corporate sponsors, the Tennessee Arts Commission, Ingram Charities, and other members of the community, the Nashville Shakespeare Festival has presented its Shakespeare in the Park productions at no charge to the public for over 35 years! In order to produce Shakespeare in the Park, The Nashville Shakespeare Festival must raise over $350,000 annually, and contributions by individuals are vitally important. Therefore there is a suggested donation of $20 per person. Please give what you can.

Can I pay to reserve seats?

Yes! There are three reserved seating options: Groundling Seating, Noble Seating, and Royal Packages. Click here for more information about what level includes!

What is the Royal Package?

A Royal Package is a complete night out at the theatre. Patrons will enjoy prime, reserved parking, VIP check-in, a gourmet picnic-style meal on the beautiful terrace of the Element Hotel, and premium reserved seating in comfortable chairs just behind the blanket area in front of the stage. The package is $100 per person and 36 Royal Packages are available per night. All proceeds from the Royal Package support our educational and community engagement programming. Click here for more information on what the Royal Package includes and the food menu.

What about rain?

Summer weather in Nashville can be quite unpredictable, and a late afternoon rain can lead to a cool evening performance, so we will not cancel a show on account of rain until the last possible minute. NSF’s stage manager will make the decision to cancel a show when she sees that the weather threatens the safety of our audience, cast, or crew. Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X for up-to-the-minute reports.

What about restrooms?

Restrooms are available behind the Bandshell before the show and during intermission. In addition, well-maintained portable restrooms will be conveniently located near the audience area and serviced regularly throughout the run to ensure a clean and comfortable experience for all guests.

What if I need assistance with seating, parking, or have other accessibility needs?

The Nashville Shakespeare Festival is committed to making all of its productions accessible to everyone in the community. Reserved parking and seating is available for audience members who use mobility aids; and assistive listening devices and printed scripts are available for the hard-of-hearing. We also have an ASL-interpreted performance. Advance notice of your needs will help us to assist you. Please contact Robert Marigza-Yeo robert@nashvilleshakes.org. On-site, please see the House Manager for help with these or other special needs you may have.