Located in historic Staunton, Virginia, the American Shakespeare Center invites homeschooling families to immerse themselves in the world of Shakespeare during our Homeschool Day performances.
At the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s first recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre, families can experience unforgettable matinee performances, engaging workshops, and post-show talkbacks that bring these classic stories to life.
What makes ASC special?
Nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, ASC’s Homeschool Days offer a transformative educational experience perfect for students of all ages.
Shipwrecked and disguised, Viola stumbles into a love triangle that spirals out of control. Add wild parties, forged letters, and yellow stockings, and Twelfth Night becomes Shakespeare’s most mischievous comedy of mistaken identity.
Thursday, March 5, 2026 – Homeschool Day
Bring your homeschoolers ages 7 and up to the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton for a unique field trip with live performances, hands-on workshops, and interactive talkbacks that make history and literature exciting for all ages.
Plan your day at the American Shakespeare Center. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your day at the American Shakespeare Center:
Please Note: Food and drink are not permitted inside the Playhouse. Plan to enjoy your meal before or after the performance, and store picnics in your car or bus.
Lunch is not included, but you can choose from nearby options like Mary Baldwin University’s dining hall, the Woodrow Wilson Gardens for a picnic, or family-friendly restaurants in downtown Staunton. See below for more details on each option.
Location: Mary Baldwin University (just minutes from the Blackfriars Playhouse)
Perfect for groups of all sizes—from 10 to 100 or more—Mary Baldwin University’s dining hall offers a hearty buffet with plenty of options to suit every taste, including accommodations for dietary restrictions and food allergies. We kindly ask you to book at least 15 days in advance and share any dietary needs with our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com
Location: Woodrow Wilson Gardens, a short walk from the Playhouse
Bring your lunch to the serene and historic Woodrow Wilson Gardens, the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson. Surrounded by greenery, it’s the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the charm of Staunton, Virginia. Store your picnic in your car or bus until ready to eat.
Location: Staunton’s Historic District
Staunton offers a variety of family-friendly dining options, from charming cafés to farm-to-table restaurants and international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick sandwich or a gourmet meal, downtown has it all. Explore the Staunton Dining Guide for recommendations, and don’t forget to make reservations if you’re dining with a larger group.
Our workshops ignite creativity and foster essential skills like public speaking, critical thinking, creative writing, and collaboration.
Little Academe photographed at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Virginia, on 12-19-16.Photo by Pat Jarrett.
Through engaging activities, students build confidence, develop adaptability, and strengthen communication—all while discovering the magic of storytelling and performance. Each session provides a fresh way to connect with timeless stories, transforming classic works with their unique perspectives and growing skills that shine on and off the stage.
We’re here to help ensure your group arrives at the playhouse and gets parked with plenty of time to enjoy the show!
Bus parking details, including maps, will be emailed to your group a week before your visit. If you have questions, contact our Group Sales Team at groupsales@americanshakespearecenter.com or 540.885.5588 ext. 115.
Much Ado About Nothing, 2020 Actors’ Renaissance Season at the Blackfriars Playhouse.
Not sure if a show is right for your group? We’re happy to help! Call us at 540.885.5588 Ext. 115
For more information, please visit our Ticket Policies.