Each spring, the excitement begins to build in Ashland as a new season of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival gets underway. The 2026 season promises to be one of the most dynamic in recent years, blending beloved Shakespeare classics, powerful American dramas, an award-winning musical, and exciting contemporary productions. For theater lovers, there is simply no better time to plan a visit and experience the magic of live performances in Southern Oregon.
This year’s lineup offers something for everyone. Shakespeare fans can look forward to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of his most enchanting and whimsical comedies, along with the fiery and thought-provoking The Taming of the Shrew and the sweeping historical drama Henry IV, Part One. These timeless stories continue to captivate audiences with their humor, romance, and unforgettable characters.
The outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre will once again come alive with rotating repertory performances, including Emma, Kate Hamill’s lively adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel. Filled with wit, romance, and modern energy, Emma offers a fresh and entertaining take on a familiar classic.
Musical theater fans will not want to miss Come From Away, the Tony Award-winning musical based on the remarkable true story of a small Canadian town that welcomed thousands of stranded airline passengers on September 11, 2001. Its message of compassion and community resonates deeply and makes it one of the most anticipated productions of the season.
The 2026 season also highlights powerful American storytelling, including A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry’s landmark drama exploring family, dreams, and resilience, and August Wilson’s King Hedley II, a gripping and emotional look at redemption and identity. These productions continue OSF’s tradition of presenting meaningful stories that reflect the complexity of the human experience.
In addition to these major works, audiences can experience bold contemporary theater such as You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World!, a new play blending humor and heart, and Yellow Face, a sharp and insightful satire about identity and representation. Together, these productions showcase OSF’s ongoing commitment to innovation, diversity, and artistic excellence.
For guests planning their visit, staying close to the theaters makes all the difference. Country Willows Inn offers the perfect location just minutes from downtown Ashland and the festival venues.
Surrounded by beautiful grounds and quiet natural scenery, the inn offers a calm and comfortable environment where guests can unwind, reflect on the performance, and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Many visitors enjoy pairing multiple performances over several days, turning their theater trip into a relaxing getaway. With its convenient location, welcoming atmosphere, and tranquil setting, Country Willows makes it easy to enjoy everything the Oregon Shakespeare Festival has to offer while still enjoying rest and relaxation.
The start of the 2026 Oregon Shakespeare Festival season marks the return of storytelling that inspires, entertains, and connects us. Whether you’re drawn to Shakespeare’s enduring brilliance, powerful modern dramas, or vibrant new productions, this season promises unforgettable experiences. And with Country Willows Inn just minutes away, you can enjoy world-class theater while staying in one of Ashland’s most peaceful and inviting settings.
