The king's death, in a battle with the victorious Lancasters, brought an end to 30 years of wars, which were named for the emblems of the feuding royal houses. The season begins with a preview July 13, a benefit performance the following night and an official opening on Friday, July 15. Playgoers spread blankets on the ground in front of the stage or sit on chairs and risers. Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre, which has been described as organic Shakespeare, draws its cast from locals and university students from around the country, who live in tents, campers and buses in the company's Shakespeare camp north of Fairbanks. The Shakespearian company enjoys a reputation as innovative, with its imaginative sets and interpretations of Shakespeare's plays.
Tickets are also available on site.
Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre also offers family entertainment through its annual family day at Birch Hill, with games, balloons, face-painting, performances from the Children's Theatre and more. This year's event July 3 will go from noon to 4 p.m. The children's theater usually performs a parody of the main production. The company's Street Theatre takes Shakespeare to the streets. Look for the Street Theatre at the Midnight Sun Street Fair, at Golden Days and the state fair, as well as baseball games and other downtown places.