OSF 2023 Season Brochure

from nataki garrett, artistic director

welcome

Photo by Maya Phillips

welcome to osf’s 2023 season—what i am calling the Season of Love.

Starting with one of the most famous love stories of all from our namesake playwright, this year’s exciting lineup kicks off with Romeo and Juliet. I was first introduced to William Shakespeare through this story, and since then I have seen and produced more productions of it than I can count. I have seen every movie version and many adaptations. I cannot wait to delve into my first-ever Shakespeare production and at my home theatre, the famed Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

This love story aptly sets the stage for the productions that follow throughout the season. The wildly popular and deeply moving Rent, whose “Seasons of Love” has become an anthem for humanity. The Three Musketeers, which centers on the love and commitment between comrades. Twelfth Night, another Shakespeare favorite, that focuses on the complexity and allconsuming pain of unrequited love. Where We Belong, about a Mohegan woman who loves her language and also loves the language used to replace her own. And of course, It’s Christmas, Carol!—bringing us back to our love of laughter during the winter holiday season.

Our O! Digital Stage also continues to thrive and brings our beloved OSF into new possibilities. Get ready for Quills Fest, our public agora at the intersection between live theatre and immersive technology; experience OSF plays from home with Theatre on Film; and witness the Visual Sovereignty Project, a digital commissioning project that recognizes Indigenous people have a story to tell, “for us, by us, now us.”

This season is our love letter to love. It’s our love letter to our incredible artists and the work they create and it’s our love letter to you, our beloved audience, both new and traditional, young and old, from across the country and around the world. We love that you are here.

Nataki Garrett Artistic Director

ROMEO AND JULIET

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Nataki Garrett

April 18 –

October 15, 2023

Angus Bowmer Theatre

a love for the ages

One of the most famous stories of young love explodes with intense passion in this contemporary production— as two star-crossed lovers from two different families and backgrounds sacrifice all to be together. Artistic Director Nataki Garrett sets the enduring tale of ill-fated lovers on the West Coast and explores the financial and class divisions of our current time through this beloved tale.

why this show

This is visionary director Nataki Garrett’s first Shakespeare production since beginning her tenure as OSF Artistic Director.

This reimagined production will particularly connect with local audiences that are familiar with the specific delights and difficulties of living on the West Coast.

no day but today

In this Pulitzer Prize–winning musical, a group of young artists fight for justice and visibility during the AIDS crisis, drawing strength from the beautiful bonds of friendship and chosen family. With its profound message of joy and hope in the face of uncertainty, this iconic musical reminds us to measure our lives with what truly matters—love.

why this show

Rent has touched the hearts of countless theatre lovers since its premiere nearly 30 years ago. And Larson’s look at a scrappy group of artists combating disease, poverty, inflation, and addiction is as timely today as ever.

Director Tiffany Nichole Greene (Hamilton, Philip Tour) is a rising star of the American musical theatre, and her take on this beloved show will be one of a kind.

This production features electrifying choreography by Jon Rua, who starred in Hamilton’s original Broadway cast and film version.

RENT

Book, music, and lyrics by Jonathan Larson

Directed by Tiffany Nichole Greene

April 19 – October 14, 2023

Angus Bowmer Theatre

TWELFTH NIGHT

By William Shakespeare

June 1 – October 13, 2023

Allen Elizabethan Theatre

Directed by Dawn Monique Williams

if music be the food of love, play on!

Shakespeare’s hilarious yet heartbreaking tale of unrequited love takes over the Allen Elizabethan stage! A ship is wrecked on the rocks: Viola is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, Viola steps out to explore a new land. In this production that finds its inspiration in early blues and jazz greats like Bessie Smith, music is the food of love and nobody is quite what they seem.

why this show

Director Dawn Monique Williams’s music-filled The Merry Wives of Windsor was an audience favorite. This blues and jazz-steeped production, featuring the music of celebrated composer Elton Bradman, will bring out the tonal complexities of this beloved tale. Learn

all for one, one for all

An inspiring tale filled with laughter and adventure, The Three Musketeers is a reminder to all that courage, honesty, and valor can change the world. Kirsten Childs’s adaptation finds its inspiration in the oftignored fact that writer Alexandre Dumas was of French-Haitian heritage, and award-winning director Kent Gash (The Comedy of Errors) playfully mixes swagger and swashbuckle.

why this show

Built for the epic Elizabethan stage, Childs’s bold adaptation will be a crowd-pleaser for everyone!

Swashbuckling, music, dance, hip-hop! Awardwinning director Kent Gash blends period flair with modern touches to highlight the youthful playfulness of the original.

Learn more!

THE THREE MUSKETEERS

Written by Kirsten Childs

Inspired by Alexandre Dumas

Directed by Kent Gash

Presented in Association with The Acting Company

May 31 – October 14, 2023

Elizabethan Theatre

WHERE WE BELONG

Written by Madeline Sayet

Directed

by

Mei Ann Teo

Presented by OSF and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

In Association with Folger Shakespeare Library

August 24 –

October 15, 2023

Thomas Theatre

being indigenous in a colonized world

In 2015, Achokayis, a Mohegan theatre-maker, moves to England to pursue a PhD in Shakespeare, grappling with the question of what it means to remain or leave, as the Brexit vote threatens to further disengage the UK from the wider world. Moving between nations that have failed to reckon with their ongoing roles in colonialism, Achokayis finds comfort in the journeys of their Native ancestors who had to cross the ocean in the 1700s to help their people. In this intimate and exhilarating solo piece directed by Mei Ann Teo, playwright Madeline Sayet asks us what it means to belong in an increasingly globalized world.

why this show

Madeline Sayet, a celebrated Shakespeare scholar and director, weaves her personal story, her Tribe’s heritage, and her evolving relationship to the Bard into a compelling tale that grapples with the colonial impact of Shakespeare on Indigenous communities—a story that feels custom-made for OSF!

This production marks the OSF directing debut of Associate Artistic Director and Director of New Work Mei Ann Teo. Learn

IT’S CHRISTMAS, CAROL!

A play with lots of songs by Mark Bedard, Brent Hinkley, and John Tufts

Directed by Pirronne Yousefzadeh

November – December 2023

Angus Bowmer Theatre

new jokes. new folks. same dinosaurs.

This slightly unhinged, fully irreverent, song-skewered comedy was such a hit that we’re bringing it back for a third holiday spectacular! Come see it—or see it again!

On Christmas Eve, three ghosts take affluent society woman Carol Scroogenhouse through time and space to reckon with her views on love, wealth, and holiday cheer. Whisked to a Shakespearean theatre, a prehistoric holiday celebration, and a zombie future, will Carol find her soul with the help of these apparitions?

why this show

The zany, bold and beloved tradition returns for its third year! Warm up with this holiday show custom-built for OSF to celebrate what makes this organization so unique.

Ashland is especially charming during the wintry months and is fast becoming a holiday destination. Come and enjoy everything this beautiful town has to offer!

Learn more!

the future of live performance

OSF’s Quills Fest returns for a third year, featuring a bespoke Virtual Reality exhibition space built by OSF’s Creative Technologists in Residence and a slate of world-premiere XR projects that boldly explores the future of storytelling. Quills Fest is OSF’s annual festival at the intersection of Live Theatre and Extended Reality, engaging artists and audiences around the world on the web, in virtual reality and in person—in pop-up VR hubs across cities. Exhibitions, performances, and discussions feature the most adventurous voices in performance and immersive technology.

why this show:

OSF continues to lead the charge of innovative theatre by combining the technological advancements of virtual reality with live performance art.

This is an opportunity for a wide array of artists across several genres to come together in a democratized creative process and be rewarded for their hard work!

QUILLS FEST

November 17 – 18, 2023

OSF’s O! Digital Stage

VISUAL SOVEREIGNTY PROJECT

Throughout the Season in Various Public Spaces on the OSF Campus, and on OSF’s O! Digital Stage

for the love of indigenous autonomy

Visual Sovereignty Project is a digital commissioning project that recognizes Indigenous people have a story to tell, “for us, by us, now us.” Curated and produced in partnership with Chava Florendo, Visual Sovereignty Project decolonizes the O! Digital Stage by transcending normative expectations about “what is Indigenous work?” through artistic, personal, and tribal sovereignty. Interdisciplinary teams of Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island will create digital interpretations of traditional stories. Visual Sovereignty Project will claim spaces across theatre lobbies and public space on OSF’s campus throughout the year, and also be viewable on the O! Digital Stage.

why this show:

VSP will activate our artistic home in a way that’s never been done before—making use of public space (rather than stages alone) to create art for public consumption.

VSP is a reflection of OSF’s continued commitment to uplifting and engaging with the work of Indigenous artists, and welcoming Indigenous audiences. Learn

theatre on your terms

OSF’s new Theatre on Film initiative invites global audiences to experience OSF’s celebrated artistry in their homes. As a central part of OSF’s commitment to expanding access to the transformational power of theatre, select in-person productions in the repertory season are cinematically captured and made available online on the O! Digital Stage, through an interactive portal that reimagines and expands the definition of live theatre.

why this show

The only thing better than taking in your favorite play or musical on OSF’s gorgeous grounds is taking it in all over again from the comfort of your couch!

OSF continues to be a leading force in the movement to make live theatre more accessible.

Learn more!

THEATRE ON FILM

Throughout the Season

OSF’s O! Digital Stage

From the live performances on our stages, to our digital programs that reach audiences around the globe, to our education and engagement work— your support is the foundation for it all! Contact development@osfashland.org to learn more.

• Make a Gift. Become a Change Maker!

By donating to our annual fund and becoming a Change Maker, you will enjoy special opportunities both digitally and in person—to experience illuminating behind-the-scenes stories, sneak previews of work in progress, and inspiring conversations with brilliant artists. Find out more at osfashland.org/changemakers.

• Plan Your Legacy.

Step forward with OSF into a joyful and art-filled future by including OSF in your legacy planning. Your wills, trusts, and gifts of real estate help ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience all the powerful storytelling that OSF has to offer.

• Be a Sustainer.

Make a gift to our endowment and secure the future of our organization through economic upheaval and challenges we can’t predict. It’s an investment in the community and the theatre you love.

• Invest with Your Business.

Enhance awareness and visibility of your brand while demonstrating a commitment to the community and the arts through our corporate giving programs.

To support OSF today, visit osfashland.org/donate.

• Make an Introduction!

Do you know someone who would be inspired by OSF’s work in powerful classics, new work, and digital innovation? We are always looking to connect with those who are excited about expanding access to the transformational power of art.

We thank ALL our generous donors for their incredible generosity and commitment to advancing the mission of OSF in our community and the world.

Confederates (2022): Bianca Jones. Photo byJennyGraham

For an updated list of our supporters, please visit osfashland.org.

osfashland.org/changemakers

a day at the festival

OSF is more than just world-class live theatre. We also offer thought-provoking conversations, speakers, free pre-show entertainment, tours, and more.

Green Show | May 31 – September 30, 2023

Be sure to stop by our Courtyard Stage to enjoy a wonderful variety of free preshow entertainment! All ages welcome. Beginning May 2023, watch osfashland.org/greenshow for our monthly schedule. Wednesday–Saturday, 6:45pm. Free.

Prefaces, Talkbacks & Festival Noons | All season

Get an insider’s look into OSF productions by attending one of our popular Prefaces, a postshow Talkback, or our new monthly Festival Noons series. Preface or Festival Noon: $10; group discounts available. Talkbacks: free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

OSF Tours | All season

Discover the show behind the shows with two different types of tours: a 60-minute fun, informative Campus Tour hosted by the Tudor Guild, or a 90-minute deep dive into OSF with special “Behind the Curtain” tours. $15. For a schedule, see the calendar on pages 26–37.

OSF Gift Shop | All Season

Come see our pop-up gift shops in all three theatre lobbies! For dates, see calendar on pages 26–37.

Amina Henry leads

* Donors at the Revolutionaries level and above are invited to join us for Season Opening Festivities on April 29.

** Donors in the Southampton Society are invited to join us for a Gathering on May 6.

*** Donors at at the Innovators level or above are invited to join us for an Innovators+ Gathering on May 20.

Go to osfashland.org/changemakers to find out more.

• Previews are performances just before the play officially opens, an important part of the artistic process. We love preview audiences!

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

• Talkback: An informal postshow discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Festival Noons are once-a-month demonstrations or interactive experiences that provide insights into the works on our stages. $10.

• Green Show: Concerts on the Bricks. Free.

* Donors at the Innovators level and above are invited to join us for the Allen Elizabethan Theatre Opening Festivities on June 15. Go to osfashland.org/changemakers to find out more.

• Previews are performances just before the play officially opens, an important part of the artistic process. We love preview audiences!

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

• Talkback: An informal postshow discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Festival Noons are once-a-month demonstrations or interactive experiences that provide insights into the works on our stages. $10.

• Green Show: Concerts on the Bricks. Free.

Revenge Song (2022): Reina Guthrie, Royer Bockus. Photo by Jenny Graham.

Cold?

previews opens ASL interpreted bmr Angus Bowmer Theatre tho Thomas Theatre allen Allen Elizabethan Theatre

gss Green Show Stage carp Carpenter Hall

Here’s a cool idea.

On chilly nights in our outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, rent a handmade pillow or fleece blanket to keep you warm and cozy throughout the show. Just visit the Soroptimists’ counter (near the Access Booth in the concessions area) and know that your rental supports local education for women and girls.

ASL interpreted

A crowd favorite— the Green Show!

Our beloved free evening concert series returns to the Courtyard Stage in 2023, running May 31 –September 30, Wednesday through Saturday at 6:45pm. We’re booking the bands now— visit osfashland.org/greenshow in late spring 2023 for artists.

* Donors at the Illuminators level or above are invited to join us for the Change Makers Weekend, July 14–16. Go to osfashland.org/changemakers to find out more.

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• “Behind the Curtain” Tour: A 60-minute tour open to all playgoers that gives participants a taste of the different ingredients of live theatre. Only available during July and August. $15.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

• Talkback: An informal post-show discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Festival Noons are once-a-month demonstrations or interactive experiences that provide insights into the works on our stages. $10.

• Green Show: Concerts on the Bricks. Free.

The Tempest (2022): Ensemble. Photo by Jenny Graham.

Discover brass rubbing!

Stop by the Bill Patton Garden behind the Elizabethan Theatre, Weds–Sat, 10am–1pm, to create both a souvenir and a memory Members of the Tudor Guild will guide you as you create replicas of historic brass relief plaques, offering a wide range of subjects— from bugs to the Boleyn family— at an affordable price!

(2022): Helen Sadler, Nora el Samahy, Caroline Shaffer. Photo by Jenny Graham.

26 August Opening Night Festivities*

Campus Tour 10:30

rent bmr 1:30

Preface-Musketeers carp 5:30 Green Show gss 6:45

romeo bmr 8:00

musketeers allen 8:00

* Donors at the Revolutionaries level and above are invited to join us for the Opening Night Festivities for Where We Belong on August 26. Go to osfashland.org/changemakers to find out more.

• Previews are performances just before the play officially opens, an important part of the artistic process. We love preview audiences!

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• “Behind the Curtain” Tour: A 60-minute tour open to all playgoers that gives participants a taste of the different ingredients of live theatre. Only available during July and August. $15.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

• Talkback: An informal post-show discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Festival Noons are once-a-month demonstrations or interactive experiences that provide insights into the works on our stages. $10.

• Green Show: Concerts on the Bricks. Free.

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

• Talkback: An informal post-show discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Festival Noons are once-a-month demonstrations or interactive experiences that provide insights into the works on our stages. $10.

• Green Show: Concerts on the Bricks. Free.

I

How I Learned What

Learned (2022): Steven Anthony Jones.

Photo by Jenny Graham.

september

Safety in our theatres

The safety of our audience, artists, and staff is our top priority. As Covid restrictions and guidelines change, our safety protocols within our theatres will change accordingly. Watch osfashland.org/safety for news throughout the 2023 season.

* All donors are invited to our Gala Weekend, October 13–15. Go to osfashland.org/ changemakers to find out more.

bmr 1:30

Preface-Twelfth carp 5:30

bmr 8:00

allen 8:00

6

Tour 10:30

bmr 1:30

tho 1:30 Talkback after Belong tho

bmr 8:00

carp 5:30

allen 8:00

October ASL-interpreted dates are subject to change.

• Campus Tour: A 60-minute fun, informative walking tour hosted by the Tudor Guild. $15.

• Talkback: An informal post-show discussion in the theatre lobby. Free with a ticket to that performance for selected shows.

• Preface: A 30-minute in-depth introduction to a play you’ll be seeing. $10 per person.

accessibility

We are committed to offering services that make our programs accessible to all visitors.

OSF abides by all applicable ADA ticketing and mobility rules, with ADA seating available at every price level. Captioning, assistive listening devices, ADA seating and audio description are available for all performances of all shows with limited availability. All OSF access and accommodation services are complimentary.

More Accessibility Services

Visit osfashland.org/access for updated information on:

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation

Audio Augmentation/ Assistive Listening Devices

Audio Description Braille and Large Print Playbills

Closed Captioning

Mobility Considerations

Photo:Jenny Graham.

Photo by Kim Budd.

ordering tickets

See the full show calendar online at osfashland.org/calendar.

Economy: Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, Thursday matinees.

Standard: Thursday evenings, Friday matinees, Saturday matinees.

Premium: Friday evenings, Saturday evenings, Sunday matinees, and all Opening and Closing performances.

Peace of Mind All Year Long

Use Season Ticket Insurance for as many tickets as you need in 2023, allowing you to exchange your tickets to a new performance or request a refund up to 24 hours before your performance. Change Makers at the Creator level and above will automatically have ticket insurance for all tickets! Learn more and purchase for $30 at osfashland.org/TicketInsurance.

We Love Groups!

For special pricing and offerings for groups of 15 or more, visit osfashland.org/groups.

Covid Safety

As Covid regulations fluctuate, our in-theatre safety guidelines and rules around concession sales may also change. Find out before you go by visiting osfashland.org/safety.

immerse yourself in ashland

OSF lives surrounded by outstanding natural beauty, stimulating culture, incredible food and wine, fullsensory shopping experiences, and more, all in this modern mountain town. There’s so much to explore here in Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley. Make your plans today. travelashland.com osfashland.org/plan-your-visit

Whether you’re visiting for a week or just an afternoon, you’ll find an exhilarating mix of activities, performances, and outdoor beauty to take in.

administrative offices Street Address: 15 S. Pioneer Street Ashland, Oregon

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 158 Ashland, OR 97520 (541) 482-2111

ticket sales

Online: osfashland.org

Box Office: (800) 219-8161

boxoffice@osfashland.org

Group Sales (Mon–Fri): (866) 545-6337

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a public charity as outlined in section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Photos by Bob Palermini

dining, lodging & attractions

DINING

larks restaurant Located at the Ashland Springs Hotel, LARKS celebrates Oregon: its farms, orchards, creameries and wineries offering delightful comfort food and an awardwinning wine list. Restaurant Chef is a master in showcasing flavors of this region. www.LarksAshland.com

LODGING

ashland hills hotel This 14-acre property boasts panoramic views, and many great amenities including an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, fitness room, tennis courts, cruiser bikes, onsite LUNA Café and electric car chargers. Enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi. AshlandHillsHotel.com

ashland springs hotel

Elegantly restored 1925 historic landmark in the heart of downtown, offers 70 tastefully appointed guest rooms, restaurant, spa, English garden, banquet spaces & catering. Relaxed comfort and elegance. www.AshlandSpringsHotel.com

BookStayHop Rated the #1 host in the Pacific Northwest with over 10,000 reviews, BookStayHop® offers exceptional accommodations for travelers in southern Oregon. Let our stellar local team of guest service concierges help you make the most of your stay, so you have more time to relax and play. (877) 411-5545; info@bookstayhop.com; www.BookStayHop.com

Enjoy Even More

Beginning an hour before the show, our lobbies are open for you to enjoy a drink or snack, or even to pre-order food for intermission. And don’t forget our $5.00 reusable cups (designs may vary) that you can take into the theatre with you!

lithia springs resort Bungalows and suites surrounded by lush gardens, mineral springs, outdoor saline pool, fitness cottage, jacuzzi, onsite Waterstone Spa, and Wine Garden tasting room. Afternoon tea and WiFi. Located just 3 miles from downtown Ashland. www.LithiaSpringsResort.com

oak hill b&b

Experience a top-rated, modern bed & breakfast with attention to detail, gracious hosts and a great location. Guests rave about the scrumptious breakfasts, fabulous treats, coffee bar and comfortable linens. (541) 482-1554. www.OakHillBB.com

plaza inn & suites at ashland creek

Delight in upscale boutique lodging. Enjoy a restful retreat in one of our 92 spacious, non-smoking rooms. We offer complimentary breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, & electric car charging stations. Nestled along the beautiful Ashland Creek and just steps from downtown Ashland. www.PlazaInnAshland.com

WINERIES

dancin vineyards Minutes from Ashland & surrounded by the vines w/ views of Table Rocks, Mt. McLoughlin, a Koi Pond and the city lights, our tasting spaces provide a unique opportunity to enjoy our selection of delicious wines alongside a menu of chef-inspired bites featuring locally sourced ingredients, all from the comfort of your own table. Open: 4-7pm Wed, 12-7pm Thurs, Sun May-October, 12-7pm Thurs-Sun, NovApril. (541) 245-1133. Dancin.com