Shakespeare Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Shakespeare (SCS) is a thriving independent theatre company that was established in 2014, building on a rich legacy of 40 years of producing bold and imaginative renditions of Shakespeare's plays and other acclaimed playwrights' works. With a strong commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, SCS has enthralled, engaged, and energized countless audience members from all walks of life.

At SCS, we are driven by a passion for storytelling inspired by Shakespeare, with the conviction that these stories have the power to foster unity and understanding within our diverse community. By providing a platform for both audiences and theatre artists to connect and explore stories centered around our collective humanity, we aim to spark curiosity, empathy, and meaningful conversations.

Our Staff

Our dedicated staff is the backbone of our organization, consistently delivering outstanding productions through their combined expertise and shared enthusiasm for storytelling. Our team comprises artistic and administrative personnel, who work hand in hand to ensure an exceptional experience for our artists and audience members. Their tireless efforts and commitment to excellence enable us to create a welcoming environment that invites everyone to join our theatrical celebrations.

Our Board of Directors

Our esteemed Board of Directors includes community leaders and visionaries who are deeply invested in the continued growth and success of SCS. Their collective experience in various professional fields enables them to provide strategic guidance and support, ensuring that SCS remains a vibrant and sustainable part of our community. Their unwavering commitment to our mission contributes invaluably to our organization's stability, allowing us to focus on delivering unparalleled theatrical experiences.

Our Services and Programs

SCS is committed to providing diverse programming that engages, inspires, and entertains our audience members. Here's an overview of the services and programs we offer:

1. Mainstage Productions: SCS presents two mainstage productions each summer, performed at the picturesque Audrey Stanley Grove at DeLaveaga Park. Our selection includes works by Shakespeare and other influential playwrights, presented in dynamic and thought-provoking productions.

2. High School Shakespeare Intensive: In summer 2024, we're excited to introduce our new week-long training program for high school students. The Intensive comprises workshops, rehearsals, and concludes with a performance on the Grove mainstage, offering a unique opportunity for young artists to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare's work.

3. 2024 Summer Intensive - Shakespeare and Social Justice: This program explores the intersection of Shakespeare's themes and social justice issues, providing students with a thought-provoking and enriching educational experience.

4. Student Matinee: As part of our commitment to education and community engagement, we offer a special student matinee program, which provides young audience members with an opportunity to engage with our productions during the school day.

5. Weekend With Shakespeare: Join us for a weekend of workshops, lectures, and special performances, designed to explore and deepen your understanding of Shakespeare's works and their contemporary relevance.

6. Educational Outreach: Through our educational outreach efforts, we bring the magic of live theatre to local classrooms and community centers, fostering a love for storytelling and learning among young people.

7. Concessions and Culinary Experiences: At the Grove, we've partnered with Coffee Nine to offer an elevated dining experience during pre-show picnics and throughout performances. Enjoy expertly crafted charcuterie boxes, gourmet sandwiches, and sweets, accompanied by an array of beverages.

As a valued member of the SCS family, we invite you to explore and engage with our diverse programming, designed to inspire, delight, and challenge our audience members. We are grateful for your ongoing support and look forward to sharing our passion for storytelling with you.