For Teachers

Embark on an unforgettable field trip with our Educational Matinees at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, where students can see World Class theater during the school day. These matinees offer a transformative experience, allowing kids to immerse themselves in live theater in our custom-built venue. Enjoy a unique educational excursion as we present the same exciting productions that light up evenings and weekends at Cincy Shakes, specially scheduled at 10 am during the school week for student audiences with a Q&A following each show. See the 2024-2025 School year line up and additional information below:

  • RUNNING TIME: 2.5-3 hours, depending on the length of the play

  • RECOMMENDED AUDIENCE: Varies by show, usually 6th grade and up.

  • RECOMMENDED AUDIENCE SIZE: Up to 230-260 at each performance- some shows accommodate more than others. 

  • COST: $14 per student. Groups over 30 receive up to five free chaperone tickets.

Book early! Dates fill up fast and are first come, first served. Groups range from two to 230! Small groups will be combined with others. Schedule is subject to change.


2024-2025 Educational Matinees

Frankenstein: 

Tuesday October 15, 2024 @ 10am

Friday October 18, 2024 @ 10am

Tuesday October 22, 2024 @ 10am

Wednesday October 23, 2024 @ 10am

Tuesday October 29, 2024 @ 10am

Wednesday October 30, 2024 @ 10am

Thursday October 31, 2024 @ 10am

Frankenstein Web

Twelfth Night:

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 @ 10am

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 @ 10am

Tuesday, November 26, 2024 @ 10am

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 @ 10am

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 @ 10am

Twelfth Web

A Room in the Castle:

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, February 5, 2025@ 10am

Room Castle Web

Macbeth:

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 @ 10am

Tuesday, March 11, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 @ 10am

Macbeth Web

Tempest:

Tuesday, April 15, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 @ 10am

Tuesday, April 29, 2025 @ 10am

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 @ 10am

Tempest Web

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Important Information

  • Our theater seats up to 230 for most productions.

  • The theater lobby will be open by 9:15am on show mornings.

  • Educational Matinees will begin with a short intro discussion at 9:45am and include a Q&A session following the show (depending on time.)

  • The show begins at 10am unless otherwise noted.

  • Study guide materials will emailed to reserved groups in advance.

  • Seating is first come, first serve -but groups will be sat in a block together.

  • Additional performances can sometimes be added based on increased interest but there might be additional cost to do this. It is always a good idea to email us and discuss your needs- we will do all we can to accommodate everyone!

  • Our Educational Matinees are extremely popular- BOOK NOW to guarantee your group’s visit. All performances are first come, first served.

  • Dates are subject to change based on interest. A minimum of 100 seats must be sold in order for the performance to take place. Small groups or pairs may be asked to switch dates to combine with other small groups- your flexibility and cooperation is greatly appreciated!

Any Questions? - Please email us at education@cincyshakes.com

Explore our in classroom workshops:

With questions or for more information, please contact Director of Education, Emily Bruns by email or phone at (513) 381-2273 x. 3210

NEW! Shakes on Tour!

Introducing "Shakes on Tour!" our newest offering that brings abridged versions of Shakespeare’s most famous works directly to your school! These 1-hour performances of Macbeth or Romeo and Juliet are designed for smaller groups (up to 150 students), ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience. Each performance features a connective narrative that complements the original text, helping students fully grasp the story and its themes. Perfect for classrooms looking for a close-up encounter with Shakespeare!

Performance Details:

  • Plays Available: Macbeth and Romeo and Juliet

  • Format: 1-hour abridged versions. Designed for smaller groups, accommodating up to 150 students.

  • Features: Incorporates a narrative to complement the original Shakespearean text, enhancing storytelling clarity. Ensures students remain fully engaged with the material.

  • Audience: Intended for smaller groups rather than large assemblies. Ideal for settings where students can experience a closer, more personal interaction with the performance.

Available: November 1, 2024 – May 23rd, 2025

Requirements: An open space at least 20x20

Cost: $750 or $1250 for two performances on the same day

Contact emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com to discuss booking Shakes on Tour! at your school.

R And J Ed Tour 2023 80

With questions or for more information, please contact Director of Education, Emily Bruns by email or phone at (513) 381-2273 x. 3210

PROJECT38 is a transformative and free educational outreach program by Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, designed to inspire students in underserved local schools through the arts. This program empowers students by creating projects with them, not for them, offering unique opportunities to engage creatively with Shakespeare.

In 2014, CSC became one of only five theaters in the country to complete Shakespeare’s entire canon, producing all 38 plays. With PROJECT38, we aim to reenact this achievement annually, in collaboration with schools across Cincinnati and beyond. Designed to enhance understanding of Shakespeare, improve academic performance, and boost confidence and public speaking skills, PROJECT38 is a comprehensive and free program open to all learners.

This innovative initiative allows students and educators to collaborate closely with CSC teaching artists throughout the academic year, developing inventive interpretations of one of Shakespeare's 38 plays—all at no cost to the school. The program culminates in a vibrant spring festival, where students proudly showcase their projects in our space for their peers, parents, teachers, and the broader community.

This program is intended for schools that are most in need of artistic enrichment opportunities due to limited resources. Read below for more details on how to apply.

Sign Up to Learn More