Laughter fills the Blackfriars Playhouse as audiences step out of Illyria and into the Staunton night, still smiling. Shakespeare’s comedy of mistaken identities, music, and joyful mischief is exactly what audiences needed.
Before planning your visit, take a look at the show in action.
WATCH THE TRAILER FOR ASC’S TWELFTH NIGHT
SEE WHAT AUDIENCES ARE SAYING
We caught audience reactions right after the show, while the laughter and surprises of Illyria were still fresh.
LAUGH-OUT-LOUD COMEDY
“We really liked it.”
“Yeah, it was really good. Very funny. I think it was hilarious and I think that the actors did amazing.”
“It was really good and really funny.”
MALVOLIO AND THE YELLOW STOCKINGS
“Malvolio came with his skirt and his yellow stockings that were crossguarded.”
“That was very funny.”
“You couldn’t just watch him read the letter because he was hysterical because there’s so much else going on.”
SHAKESPEARE FOR EVERYONE
“One person (in our group was) seeing Shakespeare for the first time even though it’s from a long time ago. It felt applicable. You could laugh.”
“Love the singers.”
“It’s very immersive, which I think makes it more fun.”
PLAN YOUR WEEKEND ESCAPE IN STAUNTON, VIRGINIA
Plan your trip to see Twelfth Night or What You Will as part of a Staunton weekend getaway. Known as one of Virginia’s most beautiful small towns, Staunton in the Shenandoah Valley offers theatre at the Blackfriars Playhouse, local food, wine, and unforgettable charm—all in one perfect escape.
- Experience Live Theatre at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, VA, where the American Shakespeare Center brings Shakespeare to life in the first-ever re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor stage.
- Discover Downtown Staunton, where historic streets lead you to boutique shops, art galleries, and locally loved cafés.
- Sip Your Way Along the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, with stops like Ox-Eye Vineyards’ tasting room in downtown Staunton, Barren Ridge Vineyards in nearby Fishersville, and scenic wineries just a short drive from the Playhouse.
Pair an evening at the Blackfriars Playhouse with days of exploring, and your Staunton weekend will be one to remember. Whether you’re here for Shakespeare, a romantic weekend, or a family trip, Staunton offers something unforgettable.