From a small group of passionate actors to a cornerstone of Northern Arizona’s cultural life, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival (FlagShakes) has grown into a nationally recognized theatre company. For a decade, we’ve proven that Shakespeare in Flagstaff belongs not only in classrooms and books, but also on vibrant stages that invite the whole community in.
Our First Ten Years
Our story began in downtown Flagstaff, with outdoor Shakespeare performances at Heritage Square, then expanded to beloved venues like the Museum of Northern Arizona, The Arboretum at Flagstaff, Riordan Mansion, The Pioneer Museum, and Lowell Observatory. These shows made Shakespeare in Arizona accessible in settings that celebrated both history and nature.
Highlights from our first decade include:
- Collaborations with Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, Northern Arizona University, and the Festival of Science.
- Recognition with Viola Awards for Performing Arts and Community Impact.
Each milestone strengthened our role as a leader in Flagstaff theatre and in the performing arts in Flagstaff more broadly.
What’s Ahead
The next decade is filled with possibility.
- Beaver Street Theatre: Our 75-seat black box in downtown Flagstaff will offer affordable, professional space for actors and audiences year-round.
- Mountain Rose Theatre & Mountain Arts Conservatory: A bold project to create a Globe-inspired timber-frame theatre and performing arts campus, uniting arts and science in Northern Arizona.
- New Works & Collaborations: From Shakespeare’s Sirens to To Be Young, Gifted, and Black, we’ll continue pushing boundaries, while expanding collaborations with local artists, schools, and scientific institutions.
Join the Story
FlagShakes has become a vital part of Shakespeare in Arizona because of people like you. Whether you attend a show, volunteer backstage, or donate to our campaigns, you are part of this movement to keep theatre alive in Flagstaff.
Together, we’ll ensure the next ten years bring even more joy, empathy, and opportunity to the performing arts in Flagstaff.
Celebrate 10 years of Shakespeare in Arizona by purchasing tickets to our season!
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