A not for profit, registered charity incorporated in 1985, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival Inc. continues to provide exciting contemporary and traditional productions of plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries. Under the artistic direction of Mark von Eschen, two full-length plays are performed in repertory by professional artists, in large tents on the banks of the beautiful South Saskatchewan River in the heart of Saskatoon. The festival runs from the first week in July until mid August. Matinees are performed during certain week-days and all week-ends. See our show schedule for detailed information.
Each season, our barren riverbank perch is amazingly transformed into a summer cultural paradise combining mainstage performances with numerous festive activities. The month of May will see the raising of our mainstage tent, with its 282 seat capacity, along with our smaller tent, affectionately known as the Billy Tent. During the month of June, the energetic activity of crew and cast prepare the site and rehearse in great anticipation of the season's opening. Our site also features Sir Toby’s Tavern and Riverside Deck – the only riverside tavern in Saskatoon.
In addition to performances taking place on the mainstage, companion activities such as Medieval Feasts, workshops, tours, art displays, special matinees and the Community Stage offer great variety for our patrons. Our Community Stage is Saskatoon’s only summer-long free performance venue for emerging local artists, community groups and individuals; providing valuable public exposure and recognition not readily available elsewhere.
Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Mandate
Vision: To make the experience of Shakespeare enriching and accessible to all.
Mission: To mount professional productions of plays by William Shakespeare and other related works, and to celebrate the skills and talents of Saskatchewan artists, in a manner accessible to all.
Principles:
- To maintain our identity as a summer festival while exploring other venues for performance
- To be professional
- To employ local artists
- To maintain fiscal responsibility
- To be accessible
- To provide opportunities for other local performers
- To recognize the educational opportunities and benefits that Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan can provide.
