About Us

Shakespeare By The Sea Festival Inc., a community-based, charitable organization, produces and promotes artistic works with a focus on William Shakespeare. Our organization unites seasoned and developing talent and aspires to excel in all aspects of our work. The Shakespeare By The Sea Festival is the longest running outdoor summer theatre event in the St. John's area and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023.

History

In 1993, a group from Memorial University called "Dick's Kids" (so-named for MUN English professor/actor/mentor Richard Buehler) wanted to experiment with outdoor theatre. They decided to produce The Tempest, by William Shakespeare, on the cliffs of Logy Bay, with nothing but the sea and sky (and the occasional whale) as backdrop. Directed by Tony Chadwick and starring Dick Buehler, Sean Panting, Petrina Bromley, and Aiden Flynn, with a budget of $500, a cashbox, and some tights, Shakespeare by the Sea was born, co-founded by Flynn and Danielle Irvine.
Since then, the Shakespeare By The Sea Festival has been performing the works of that famous Bard all around the St. John's area – from the cliff-top meadows of Logy Bay to the historic World War Two bunkers at Cape Spear – from the cobblestoned courtyard of the Murray Premises to the lush landscapes of Bowring Park. Since that time, the Festival has grown into a much-anticipated annual event.
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The festival strives to serve the community in two ways: by presenting quality theatre on our province’s unique and rugged landscapes for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike; and by mentoring the company members that make the shows possible. Over our 25-year history, alumni have gone on to further artistic success here in our province and at places like the Stratford Festival, as well as to serve the community in many capacities beyond the arts. The rigorous artistic process we lead each summer sets alumni up for success in many walks of life.