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.
2025-2026 Educational Matinees
Remaining in the 2024-2025 School Year:
The Tempest
Educational Performances:
Tuesday, Apr. 15, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Apr. 16, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Apr. 29, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Apr. 30, 2025 at 10am
Marooned on an enchanting, yet ecologically fragile island, the exiled sorcerer Prospero waits, consumed by thoughts of revenge. So when fate places all his old enemies within his reach, tempests (both literal and metaphorical) stir. As the climate shifts, so do allegiances, while young love takes root in this unpredictable environment. This is a voyage not to be missed.
An Enemy of the People
Educational Performances:
Wednesday, Sep. 10, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Sep. 16, 2025 at 10am
Experience this fresh and provocative new adaptation by Amy Herzog of the Henrik Ibsen classic. When a doctor discovers a shocking secret about his community’s prized health resort, he becomes determined to expose the truth- even if it means turning the entire town against him. A timeless masterpiece that challenges us to ask: how far are we willing to go to stand up for what’s right?
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
Educational Performances:
Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 at 10am
Sink your teeth into a hilarious new take on the world’s most famous vampire! Filled with outrageous twists and more laughs than you can count, this delightful romp reimagines Bram Stoker’s gothic classic like you’ve never seen before. Join the hilarious hunt this Halloween season, where the only thing sharper than Dracula’s fangs are the gags that’ll leave you in stitches. Don’t miss the riotous ride that’s sure to leave you howling with laughter!
Love's Labour's Lost
Educational Performances:
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 at 10am
Monday, Nov. 24, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025 at 10am
Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025 at 10am
Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025 at 10am
Get ready for a retro twist on a Shakespeare comedic gem! Transported to a totally tubular 80s-inspired high school setting, a group of friends tries to swear off love to focus on their school work but their plans go hilariously off the rails as new arrivals and unexpected attractions shake up their studies. Join us for a fab, fun, and irresistibly nostalgic take on one of the Bard’s most charming comedies.
A Soldier's Play
Educational Performances:
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026 at 10am
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026 at 10am
Set on a segregated Army base in 1944, A Soldier’s Play opens with the shocking murder of a polarizing sergeant, prompting a determined officer to unearth the truth behind this unsettling crime. As suspects emerge and tensions simmer beneath the surface, hidden prejudices, loyalties, and resentments threaten to tear the unit apart. This Pulitzer Prize-winning drama is filled with gripping suspense, unexpected revelations, and unforgettable characters.
Othello
Educational Performances:
Tuesday, Mar. 10, 2026 at 10am
Wednesday, Mar. 11, 2026 at 10am
Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2026 at 10am
Wednesday, Mar. 18, 2026 at 10am
Tuesday, Mar. 24, 2026 at 10am
Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026 at 10am
Jealousy, betrayal, and passion collide in this classic Elizabethan staging of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. When the esteemed General Othello succumbs to the cunning Iago’s deceptions, suspicion and heartbreak tear apart the bonds of love and loyalty. Featuring some of the most dramatic and iconic moments in all of Shakespeare, Othello is a searing exploration of trust, love, and the devastating consequences of doubt.
Pericles
Educational Performances:
Tuesday, Apr. 21 at 10am
Wednesday, Apr. 22 at 10am
Tuesday, Apr. 28 at 10am
Wednesday, Apr. 29 at 10am
Blast off on an interstellar adventure in this bold reimagining of William Shakespeare’s Pericles! In this tale, Prince Pericles embarks on an epic voyage through alien worlds, cosmic storms, and intergalactic encounters on his search for true love. Join us on a journey to the farthest reaches of Shakespeare’s canon with this seldom seen treasure, revealing how hope can guide us- even through the most distant corners of the universe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Email emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com to reserve seats and complete the booking process. Let us know your group size and a few dates you are interested in that would work for you and we will get right back to you!
Payment:
Full payment is due at least 45 days before the performance meaning that there can be no changes made to number of seats in the reservation after that point. If you are booking a show that is in less that 45 days, full payment will be required at the time of booking.
Chaperone Tickets:
In groups over 30 for the same date, chaperone tickets are complimentary up to 5 per group. Additional chaperone tickets may be purchased at the same discounted student ticket price if you have more than 5.
These shows are open to school groups, retirement communities, and homeschool students and co-op/networks. If your group is small (between 1-10 tickets) full payment must be made in advance to hold the seats and your flexibility to combine with other groups to reach the minimum needed to hold a show is appreciated.
No food or drink- including water bottles- may be consumed while in the show. All food and drink must remain in the lobby and be eaten/drank there only and each group must clean up after themselves.
Bus Parking is the responsibility of the visiting group:
CSC is a downtown venue and we do not have our own parking lot. There are pay lots and metered parking located in downtown Cincinnati but buses likely require additional parking space. It is best to discuss downtown parking options with your bus company and/or driver in advance.
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:
Engage your students in an in-depth exploration of Theatre, Shakespeare, and the Classics with our Residencies. These programs involve four or more visits, integrating our expertise directly into your classroom curriculum. Designed specifically for your classroom, Residencies allow students to connect with and understand the material in new and creative ways.
Possible Residency Topics:
Shakespeare (titles, genres, acting, language, etc…)
Theatre/Acting
Playwriting & Storytelling
Stage Combat
The Actor’s Toolbox
And more!
Pricing starts at $550
Contact emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com to discuss booking and planning a residency at your school
Bring Shakespeare to life with our interactive Shakespeare Spotlights! Workshops focus on exploring a specific play and are complemented by live acting demonstrations to bring the text to life.
Perfect for Middle School and High School students, these sessions are tailored to last between 45 and 90 minutes, making the Bard's works accessible and engaging.
Pricing starts at $450
Available plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, Julius Caesar, Othello, and Hamlet
Contact emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com to discuss booking a visit.
Explore the world of theatre with our dynamic Theatre Workshops. These sessions are ideal for a class period, club, or organization and are designed to enhance your students' understanding of a variety of topics in the theatre arts.
Possible Topics: Stage Combat, Intro to Theatre, Improvisation, Storytelling, Acting, Character Study, Comedy, and more!
Pricing starts at $150
Workshops can be tailored to a specific topic please get in touch with emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com for more information
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: March 3 – May 9, 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.
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.
PROJECT38 is offered at no cost to low income and underserved school groups and organizations. We accept groups of all ages, abilities, and experiences. Primarily, PROJECT38 attracts English and Fine Arts classes, clubs, and community groups from these schools.
Groups usually range between 5 and 30 participants. Larger groups may be assigned multiple plays or a genre of plays.
Interested in applying but don’t feel prepared to be an advisor? Contact emily.bruns@cincyshakes.com.
So many reasons! Here are a few of our favorites:
Shakespeare is a required part of the Ohio ELA curriculum – we can help teach it!
Participating in P38 has quadrupled Shakespeare comprehension grades in some schools, a 47% increase in overall academic performance, and a 75% improvement in students' attitude, confidence, motivation, and public speaking ability.
Students will learn how to analyze, comprehend, and understand the language of Shakespeare while simultaneously working on social skills, confidence, and artistic abilities.
Participating students will get to meet students from other schools in the area, see other’s projects, and connect with their peers in a new setting.
Shakespeare has universal themes and timeless topics and continues to influence modern society in art, language, and culture.
Students express more interest in the arts and/or Shakespeare after participating in PROJECT38.
IT’S FREE!
Process
We will begin PROJECT38 with a kickoff meeting for all teachers interested in being a P38 advisor at their school. Attending this meeting is REQUIRED for all teachers interested in advising PROJECT38 at their school (a recording of the meeting will be available upon request).
PROJECT38 aims to emphasize the process over the product. You will be assigned a dedicated and enthusiastic PROJECT38 teaching artist to guide you through the process, lead meaningful lessons, and assist in creating a final product. Schools are required to meet with their assigned teaching artist at least once.
Visits will be scheduled based on the availability of the group and their teaching artist. Advisors and Teaching Artists will each have specific roles and expectations that will be clarified in the kickoff meetings and in the P38 packet.
Festival
This year, the festival will take place on a Friday and Saturday “open house” style.
Throughout the week of the festival, groups will sign up for times to setup their presentations at our theatre to be ready to present at the festival.
There will be a limited number of 30-minute performance slots on both days if your group has chosen to perform. All groups, however, are heavily encouraged to go outside the box with presenting their projects by using creative interpretations other than performance. Along with student presentations, we will also have presentations and workshops by local professional Cincinnati artists.
Following the festival on Friday and Saturday, we will have a mainstage performance of The Tempest for all PROJECT38 attendees to attend at a discounted rate.
FEBRUARY
6th: 5:00 pm Kick Off Meeting with Teachers
17th: Project Proposal & Schedule Submission Due
During this period, teaching artist assignments and a first point of contact will be made and visits can begin being scheduled
MARCH
3RD: Progress Check In #1 due
17th: Progress Check In #2 due
APRIL
7th: Progress Check In #3 due
14th: Festival Questionnaire due (names of participating students, tech needs, project description, etc.)
21st: Final Check In due
28th-May 1st: Load in (date assigned as part of final check in)
MAY
2nd - 3rd: Project 38 Festival Performances & evening showings of The Tempest
