By Matthew Windham, with Dawn Tucker
Matthew Windham is a FlagShakes Company Member, Director, Actor, Writer & Coordinator of Education and Outreach Programming. Dawn Tucker is the Executive Director and Founder of Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival
Everyone who devotes a large portion of their lives to putting Shakespeare’s work on stage had a moment when Shakespeare really clicked for them; when something sparked, and they suddenly felt that maybe they, too, were part of this special club.
Can you remember what that was like? To discover that you were good at something difficult. The sense of pride that it gave you. The hunger you felt to seek out more of that special thing that suddenly belonged to you. To know that you were smart. To know that you were capable. You’d hear grown-ups talk about how Shakespeare was too hard to understand, didn’t make any sense, and you’d think: ‘not for me.’ And that feeling of confidence in your own abilities followed you throughout your life.
This is the spark I have dedicated much of my career to igniting in others through Theatre-for-Young-Audiences programming.
I have been creating and producing Shakespeare-centric TYA performances for well over a decade now with different theatre groups across the U.S. Some of the shows I’ve collaborated on have been edited versions of the full plays. Many of the shows I’ve spearheaded have been new, comical, devised works designed to introduce audiences to the titles, characters, and ideas in Shakespeare. As much as possible, I’ve looked for opportunities to bring young audience members onto the stage to speak a line or two from Shakespeare, or to include their contributions in Mad-Libs style scenes, rewritten and performed on the spot. In each instance, the goal is to allow these young people to feel that Shakespeare belongs to them.
I tend to think that children make some of the best listeners, and some of the most engaged audience. Yes, even for Shakespeare. Children walk through the world deciphering and extracting meaning from everything they see and hear and experience—whether they’ve perfectly understood the language or context, or not. They don’t tend to get hung-up as much on unfamiliar words or usages, or tangled subplots without a perfect resolution. They figure out who the characters are and how they relate to each other, and they just follow the story from there. (At least if the producers have done their job right.)
It’s for all these reasons that I am so invested in TYA Shakespeare personally, and beyond thrilled to be taking a lead role in continuing to expand Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival’s educational, touring and outreach programming into schools, libraries, fairs and community events across our region.
We all know that access to the arts is severely lacking in most communities for school-aged children. The reality is that it’s little better for senior populations, especially those with cost and mobility constraints. Both groups represent underserved populations who are frequently marginalized by traditional theatre offerings.
FlagShakes has been building its senior outreach programming little-by-little, with help from local government and cultural grants. We started with bussed-in free senior matinee performances of our mainstage shows. This year, for the first time, we toured a small-cast trunk-show production to different senior centers and senior living facilities in our community. All of this allowed us to observe and note the needs and responses of this particular segment of the audience. We’re excited to be putting that knowledge into practice in the development of an original touring production for aging audiences to be premiered in mid-2026.
Our TYA and Senior Center programs are central to FlagShakes’ mission of elevating empathy through live performance. Research consistently shows that exposure to the arts improves student engagement, literacy, and critical thinking, while for seniors, arts participation reduces loneliness, improves memory and mental health, and enhances overall well-being. Our original plays specially tailored to both of these populations are designed to meet audiences where they are—whether that’s a school cafeteria buzzing with young energy or a senior center where theatre becomes a bridge to memory, laughter, and connection.
For FlagShakes, this work is not an “add-on” but a vital expression of why we make theatre in the first place: to ensure that the power of story belongs to everyone, across generations. As we continue to take to the road with such productions as Simply Silly Shakespeare, Shakespeare on Pluto, and the upcoming Much Ado About Dinosaurs (a play that combines STEM elements and Shakespeare in an interactive adventure), along with our vibrant new Senior Show, we are excited to serve the people of our city, state, and region, and hopefully to brighten their lives and help them to feel part of something bigger.
Beyond our local community impact, we are developing these programs as a replicable model. These shows are a proven format, and wonderful for audiences of many ages beyond the target demographics. They are easy to produce and tour, and available for partnership and licensing arrangements with any organization similarly looking to expand its outreach offerings in order to better serve your own community.
Flagstaff is famous for its mountain views, starry skies, and vibrant downtown. But beyond the hiking trails and breweries, this city has a thriving cultural scene. If you’re planning your list of things to do in Flagstaff, don’t miss the chance to experience live theatre with Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival (FlagShakes).
We’re more than just plays—we’re part of the heartbeat of performing arts in Flagstaff, and our shows have become a tradition for both locals and visitors.
Shakespeare in Flagstaff: World-Class Theatre in the Mountains
There’s nothing quite like watching Shakespeare in Flagstaff. At 7,000 feet, under the stars or in an intimate venue downtown, the Bard’s timeless stories take on new life.
Every summer season, we bring audiences classics like Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and The Merry Wives of Windsor—performed with energy, live music, and actor-driven storytelling. Our productions prove that Shakespeare in Flagstaff can be just as exciting as anywhere else in the world.
Year-Round Flagstaff Theatre for Everyone
Our work doesn’t stop with summer repertory. Throughout the year, you’ll find:
- Downtown Flagstaff Performances: At Beaver Street Theatre, our 75-seat space, we present intimate plays, cabarets, and new works.
- Outdoor Summer Performances: Each year, audiences gather under the stars for unforgettable open-air productions at Flagstaff landmarks. Our outdoor shows capture the magic of summer in Northern Arizona while bringing Shakespeare in Flagstaff to life the way it was meant to be seen—in the open air.
Why Add FlagShakes to Your Flagstaff Itinerary?
When visitors ask for recommendations on things to do in Flagstaff, we often hear suggestions like hiking, breweries, or exploring downtown Flagstaff. But attending a FlagShakes performance gives you something unique: a chance to sit with your community, laugh, cry, and rediscover the power of live theatre.
Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare fan or seeing your first play, FlagShakes makes every performance engaging and unforgettable.
Make FlagShakes part of your Flagstaff adventure— get your tickets today or support FlagShakes with a donation.
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.
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.
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!
At FlagShakes, theatre isn’t just entertainment—it’s a tool to build empathy, resilience, and community. As one of the leading voices for Shakespeare in Arizona, we’ve learned that Flagstaff theatre is strongest when it puts people at the center of the story.
Our performances are intimate and collaborative. Without lavish sets or gimmicks, we rely on language, music, and human connection to draw audiences into Shakespeare’s world. Every detail helps us connect with audiences in ways that are clear and deeply human. This actor-first approach has become part of what makes FlagShakes a cornerstone of performing arts in Flagstaff.
FlagShakes is proud to be more than just a theatre company—we are an educational and cultural resource for the region.
- Theatre Education: Our programs introduce kids to Shakespeare in Flagstaff through laughter, play, and discovery.
- Senior Performances: Free Shakespeare shows at senior centers across Flagstaff bring art to those who may no longer have easy access to downtown Flagstaff venues.
- Collaborations: Partnerships with the Festival of Science, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, NAU Ballet, and Theatrikos Theatre Company create opportunities for theatre in Arizona that unite science, dance, and community storytelling.
The Ripple Effect
Every performance sparks conversation. Audience members leave not just entertained, but changed—carrying empathy, curiosity, and a deeper connection to community. By combining Shakespeare in Flagstaff with broader collaborations across Northern Arizona, FlagShakes has proven that theatre can be a bridge, not just a stage.
In an era when communities are hungry for connection, the work happening in Flagstaff theatre is not just important—it’s transformative. And FlagShakes is proud to lead the way in making performing arts in Flagstaff a force for empathy and change.
Help us continue building empathy through Flagstaff theatre—reserve your seat or support FlagShakes with a donation.
Why does a 400-year-old playwright still matter in 2025? At Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival (FlagShakes), we believe Shakespeare’s plays are as relevant as ever—because they explore the timeless human struggles of love, power, betrayal, and forgiveness. By bringing Shakespeare to life in Flagstaff with clarity, music, and community connection, we ensure his stories remain vital for audiences of every generation.
Northern Arizona deserves access to world-class theatre. For too long, audiences had to travel far from downtown Flagstaff to experience productions of this scale and quality. FlagShakes changes that by offering Shakespeare in Arizona that rivals regional theaters nationwide, while staying rooted in our mountain town community.
Our productions use Original Staging Practices: open air when possible, actor-driven performances, and live music that flows seamlessly through the plays. This approach makes the Bard’s work clear, exciting, and accessible for all ages. Whether in a festival tent, a historic site, or at our new Beaver Street Theatre, FlagShakes is proud to be part of the performing arts Flagstaff loves and deserves.
Education and Engagement
We believe Shakespeare should be experienced, not feared. That’s why our educational and outreach programs bring his work beyond the stage:
- Theatre for Young Audiences: From Simply Silly Shakespeare to Shakespeare on Pluto, kids experience theatre that’s playful, engaging, and unforgettable.
- Senior Performances: Free shows at senior centers keep theatre accessible for older community members.
- Pop-Up Performances: From classrooms to community centers in downtown Flagstaff, we meet audiences where they are.
By making Shakespeare in Arizona available to diverse communities, FlagShakes strengthens the performing arts in Flagstaff and ensures the next generation grows up seeing themselves in these timeless stories.
In a time of division, Shakespeare invites us to sit together, listen, and rediscover empathy. His plays aren’t dusty relics—they’re living, breathing works that connect us across backgrounds and experiences. As a pillar of Flagstaff theatre, FlagShakes continues to prove that Shakespeare in Flagstaff isn’t just possible—it’s essential for the health, joy, and resilience of our community.
Join us for the next chapter of Shakespeare in Flagstaff—get your tickets today or support FlagShakes with a donation.
Looking for theatre in Flagstaff or unique things to do in downtown Flagstaff? Discover the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival’s 2026 Season—featuring classics, new works, and expanded programming for children and seniors. From To Be Young, Gifted, and Black to Much Ado About Dinosaurs, this season brings unforgettable stories to Northern Arizona’s stages under the stars.
Flagstaff, AZ — 9/28/2025 — The Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, affectionately known as FlagShakes, is proud to announce its 2026 Season—a lineup of productions and programs that reaffirm the company’s mission to create actor-driven theatre that fosters empathy, strengthens community, and celebrates the enduring power of live performance.
Each year, FlagShakes returns to Shakespeare and other great playwrights because their words continue to open us to one another. Theatre in Flagstaff is not just entertainment—it is a call to compassion, to understanding, and to building a more connected world.
Theatre in Flagstaff: A Celebration of Humanity
This year’s plays invite audiences to wrestle with timeless questions of power, loyalty, laughter, and love, all while enjoying the rich tradition of Elizabethan staging practices alongside contemporary voices. Together, the season embodies FlagShakes’ commitment to presenting classics with vitality and relevance while nurturing new works and new perspectives.
Performances will unfold under Flagstaff’s iconic dark skies, bringing together residents and visitors alike to experience the unique magic of live theatre in Northern Arizona. For locals and visitors seeking theatre in Flagstaff, the 2026 season offers an unforgettable way to connect through stories that matter.
As Lorraine Hansberry once wrote, it is still not unthinkable that the human race might do what the apes never will: impose the reason for life on life. That vision of resilience and possibility is at the heart of FlagShakes’ work—creating theatre that helps us imagine not only who we are, but who we might yet become.
Expanding Programs for All Ages
In 2026, FlagShakes will also expand two of its most beloved community offerings:
- Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA): With fresh interactive performances designed especially for children and families, FlagShakes will bring Shakespeare and original plays to schools and community spaces across Northern Arizona.
- Senior Center Programming: Building on last year’s successful initiatives, FlagShakes will deepen its partnerships with local senior centers, ensuring that theatre remains accessible, joyful, and enriching for older community members.
These programs are more than outreach; they are part of a promise to weave theatre into the fabric of Flagstaff life, across generations. Everyone—whether 8 or 80—deserves to feel the spark of empathy and wonder that live theatre can ignite.
Things to Do in Downtown Flagstaff: FlagShakes Performances
Now celebrating over a decade of stability and innovation, FlagShakes continues to grow as the only professional theatre company in Northern Arizona. With award-winning productions, collaborative partnerships, and a steadfast focus on accessibility, the company serves as a cultural cornerstone for Flagstaff and beyond.
This year’s offerings also highlight things to do in Flagstaff for audiences of all ages, including downtown events. Productions such as To Be Young, Gifted, and Black and the family-friendly adventure Much Ado About Dinosaurs make FlagShakes a must-see for anyone seeking things to do in downtown Flagstaff that are both meaningful and entertaining.
The 2026 season is made possible by the generosity of donors, volunteers, and partners who share the vision of a thriving arts community. FlagShakes invites audiences to gather, to witness, and to carry the stories forward—because in theatre, as in life, empathy is our most powerful guide.
Season tickets are now on sale.
Flagstaff, AZ — In a landmark collaboration for the local arts community, four of Flagstaff’s leading theatre companies — Theatrikos Theatre Company, NAU Theatre, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, and Stargazer Collaborative Theatre — are joining forces to present a one-of-a-kind Flagstaff Theatre Season Preview Night called Flagstaff Takes The Stage.
Flagstaff Takes The Stage is a free, public event will be held at the Coconino Center for the Arts on September 13, 2025 at 6:30 PM, and will offer theatre lovers a rare chance to see the upcoming 2026 seasons from all four companies in one exciting evening of performance, connection, and celebration.
Attendees will experience:
● Live excerpts and staged scenes from upcoming productions
● Opportunities to purchase discounted tickets and subscriptions for each season
● A vibrant lobby showcase where all four companies will host booths with information, merchandise, and more
● A chance to meet the directors, actors, designers, and educators shaping the future of Flagstaff’s stages
● Although this event is free and open to the public, those who RSVP for the event will receive an invitation to attend a pre-show toast with Creative Flagstaff and Mayor Becky Daggett. Seating is limited.
This event marks the first time these four companies have co-presented a unified season launch, a testament to the increasing vibrancy, creativity, and cohesion of the performing arts in Flagstaff.
“Flagstaff has a rich and diverse cultural identity. By coming together, we’re giving audiences a deeper understanding of what theatre in Flagstaff really looks like; dynamic, collaborative, and deeply rooted in community.” – Jeremy Blunt, Theatrikos Theatre Company Executive Director.
“The transformative power of theatre is bringing together storytellers, artists and audiences to engage with new ideas and perspectives we may not otherwise experience.The Theatre Collaborative is harnessing the power of theatre by supporting the work we do individually as companies while enhancing the Flagstaff community awareness and experience with our vibrant theatre scene.” – Kathleen M. McGeever, Chair, NAU Department of Theatre
“This event reflects what FlagShakes is all about — collaboration, accessibility, and the power of live performance to connect people. We’re honored to share the stage with our fellow Flagstaff theatre-makers and give audiences a glimpse of the vibrant, diverse stories coming their way in 2026.” – Dawn Tucker, Executive Director, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival
“There’s something truly special about coming together as a community of artists. When Flagstaff’s theater groups unite to share a season, it’s more than an announcement—it’s a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and mutual support. We’re stronger together, and the stage is all the brighter for it.” – Dani Commanda, Co-Founder, Stargazer Collaborative Theatre
Flagstaff Takes The Stage is free and open to the public, but seating is limited and early arrival is recommended.
Event Details
What: Flagstaff Takes The Stage
Who: Theatrikos Theatre Company, NAU Theatre, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, Stargazer Collaborative Theatre
Where: Coconino Center for the Arts, 2300 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ When: September 13, 2025, Doors at 6:00 PM | Performances begin at 6:30 PM Cost: FREE
For more information, visit theatrikos.com/events/flagstaff-takes-the-stage or follow any of the participating organizations on social media.
About Theatrikos Theatre Company
Theatrikos Theatre Company, based in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a dynamic community theatre dedicated to enriching Northern Arizona’s cultural landscape through engaging performances and inclusive programming. Founded in 1972, Theatrikos presents a diverse season of classic, contemporary, and original works that inspire and connect audiences. Operating from the historic Doris Harper-White Playhouse, the company fosters local talent and creativity through opportunities for actors, directors, writers, and
designers of all ages and backgrounds. In addition to its mainstage productions, Theatrikos offers educational programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives that make the transformative power of live theatre accessible to all. As it continues to grow, Theatrikos remains committed to artistic excellence, community engagement, and the enduring magic of shared storytelling. More at theatrikos.com.
About NAU Theatre
The NAU Department of Theatre engages tomorrow’s theatre artists and professionals in a deep, and broad understanding of theatre by focusing on experiential, and collaborative undergraduate learning. We learn theatre by doing theatre (#DoingTheatre) – ALL aspects of the art of theatre. We are passionate about the art and craft of theatre and its impact on the world. We provide one of the many cultural outlets for Flagstaff and beyond by telling important stories and producing high quality work. Each academic year, we bring four mainstage productions to our two stages – our 300-seat, proscenium Clifford E. White Theater, and our flexible black box Studio Theater that seats from 60 to 150 patrons. In addition to our mainstage season, we produce a variety of events including the Fall One Act Festival, our Great Survival Debate, Design and Technology Expos, A Puppet Christmas Carol, and many more. Our committed student organizations produce a variety of projects each year including a 24-Hour Theatre festival, New Play Festival, workshops, community projects, and our premiere improvisational theatre company, NAUghty Bits, brings the campus and the community monthly performances. The NAU Department of Theatre is committed to the students, the university, and the community through the transformative power of Theatre. Learn more at nau.edu/theatre/ and tickets are available through the NAU Central Ticket Office at nau.edu/cto/theatre/
About Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival
Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, affectionately known as FlagShakes, is a professional theatre company committed to faithfully portraying the works of Shakespeare and other classic playwrights while also championing new, actor-driven works. Founded in 2015, FlagShakes brings Northern Arizona audiences immersive productions that highlight language, character, and humanity — often using Elizabethan staging practices to connect modern viewers to timeless stories. In addition to live performances, the company offers educational outreach and community programming that nurtures empathy, literacy, and artistic exploration. Learn more at flagshakes.org.
About Stargazer Collaborative Theatre
Stargazer Collaborative Theatre is dedicated to producing elevated, thought-provoking, and diverse performances that enrich the lives of our community. Rooted in the spirit of collaboration, Stargazer strives to be a creative haven—partnering with fellow arts
organizations and artists across northern Arizona. With a deep commitment to arts education and accessibility, Stargazer works to bring meaningful theatrical experiences to communities with limited access to the arts, inspiring connection, conversation, and creativity for all. More at stargazercollaborativetheatre.com ### END ###
Since our founding in 2015, the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival in Arizona has been a “gypsy” company without a home of its own. Like the troupes that performed in the inn yards of Shakespeare’s day, we’ve had to partner with local venues to survive. We’re not complaining. This process has made FlagShakes a nimble company with a time-tested devotion to Original Staging Practices. Now, we’re happy to announce that we have finally scored a home of our own! Following a soft opening in January, FlagShakes will host a grand opening for our new Beaver Street Theatre on April 23, 2025.
What It’s Taken to Get Here
The partnerships we’ve built over the past ten years were essential as we searched for a space and worked with business leaders and property owners to secure it. We also partnered with another arts nonprofit, Interference Series, to finance the project. Community ties are now helping us transform this former storage hall into a theatre. We’ve had workdays filled with artists and volunteers rolling up their sleeves, donating funds and goods and rallying community support. It’s taking a village to bring this dream to life.
How This Changes Our Season
FlagShakes has a strong partnership with nearby Lowell Observatory, where summer performances under our festival tent regularly sell out. But having a dedicated indoor space for rehearsals and performances expands our possibilities. No more performances at the mercy of our mountain town’s unpredictable spring and fall weather. No more scrambling for rehearsal venues. This stability allows us to fully invest in our productions and artists.
Growing Collaborations and Strengthening the Bottom Line
The Beaver Street Theatre is a flexible performance venue that can seat about 50 patrons. It will be a hub for an artistic community in desperate need of rehearsal and performance space. We’re already collaborating with the local arts community to bring in diverse voices and creative energy. Shared events and space rentals will create sustainable revenue streams so we can support our mission
while maintaining financial stability.
Looking Ahead
As we settle into our new theatre, we dream of expanding educational programs, deepening community engagement, and making this venue a true arts destination. In January, we hosted a sold-out production of Coriolanus with a Phoenix-based theatre company called Ronin. The show’s success showcased the potential of this venue. We can use it to bring in unique projects from around the state, feeding our town’s appetite for high-quality, actor-driven productions. In February, FlagShakes presented Shakespeare on Pluto, a lively opening act to what we hope will be a very long run in our new home.
Executive Director Dawn Tucker, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival and Julie Hammonds, Founding Board President and current member of the Artistic Committee.
We asked two of our 2025 Season Directors to share some behind-the-scenes insights about their upcoming productions, their artistic inspirations, and what excites them most about bringing these stories to life. Here’s what they had to say!
Matthew Windham
Q: What show are you directing for FlagShakes, and what excites you most about it?
A: I’m directing Complete Works. I love watching skilled comedians at work, and being able to offer ideas to heighten and hone every comedic beat. I’m looking forward to spending several hours a day in a room filled with laughter. What could be better?!
Q: What’s the most rewarding or exciting part of directing with FlagShakes?
A: FlagShakes is a small but mighty band of talented and committed theatre-makers who I respect a ton. It’s an enormous honor to be part of the team.
Q: When you’re casting, what qualities do you look for in an actor?
A: Inventiveness, quirkiness and adaptability.
Q: Do you have a favorite FlagShakes memory from a past production?
A: I always looked forward to fight-call before every performance of Julius Caesar. There was something really special about getting to laugh and play with all my buddies in the cast, then turn deadly serious for a few moments as we ran through the fights and I got stabbed a bunch, and then check in with each other. You really couldn’t get murdered by a nicer group of people.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that our actors and audiences might be surprised to learn?
A: I’m a very proud papa to the 3 best cats on this planet.
James Cougar Canfield
Q: What show are you directing for FlagShakes, and what excites you most about it?
A: I’m directing Emma, an adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel by Matthew Windham. Just being in Flagstaff itself is such a magical experience. The forest, the mountains- living in NYC and getting to escape this to this beautiful place for a few weeks to create art is so fantastic. Outside of location, it’s a group of people that I feel so comfortable with- they know how to take care of a team and know how tell a story, and support you in telling that story.
Q: What’s the most rewarding or exciting part of directing with FlagShakes?
A: With both projects I have previously directed for FlagShakes (As You Like It and The Importance of Being Earnest), we took some pretty big artistic swings, and the patrons were like, “let’s go, we’re coming along for this wild ride right there with you!” You can do these classics in new, exciting ways, and the FlagShakes audiences are going to be there for it. I love taking classical stories/scripts and telling them through a modern lens, and I think Emma is so very perfect to be explored like that- and I cannot wait to see what Matthew, the ensemble, and myself can create with this Jane Austen classic.
Q: When you’re casting, what qualities do you look for in an actor?
A: Big, fun choices and truth. Especially in a story like Emma, we need actors who are ready to have fun and fill the shoes of these iconic characters, but no matter how big the choices, the actor is always bringing truth to the table. I’m interested in actors who allow themselves into the text- yes, this is a classic story, but how do YOU as a performer fit into it? How do you bring YOUR truth?
Q: Do you have a favorite FlagShakes memory from a past production?
A: I loved getting to play Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night with FlagShakes. Jim Warren, the director of the production, really just let me run wild with how silly and stupid that character could be, and I just don’t often get the chance to be -that- over the top.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that our actors and audiences might be surprised to learn?
A: Not really as fun fact, but I am currently directing my adaptation of The Secret Garden with Southwest Shakespeare Company. It performs April 4-13th at Taliesin West in Scottsdale, AZ.
As we wrap up our most successful summer season ever, we want to thank you for being an integral part of this journey. This year has been truly special, and we couldn’t have achieved so much without your incredible support.
Bringing Julius Caesar and The Merry Wives of Windsor to life under our festival tent at Lowell Observatory was a true pleasure. The setting was magical, and the response from you, our audience, was overwhelmingly positive. Your support allowed us to create unforgettable experiences and pay our talented artists more than ever before.
However, despite this season’s success, there’s still a gap between ticket sales and our overall costs. As the only professional theatre in Northern Arizona, we’re committed to maintaining the highest standards and supporting our artists, but we also see the importance of keeping ticket prices low.
Compared to our $30 general admission ticket, most professional theatre companies in Arizona charge between $50-$100 for their general admission tickets. Keeping our discount and youth tickets even lower and offering free senior matinees, pay-what-you-will previews, and school tours at just $200 per grade, we strive to make FlagShakes accessible.
Your donations help make all that possible. Recurring monthly donations are especially helpful in providing the stability we need to plan for future seasons and support our ongoing programs. (Link in bio)
Your continued generosity will make a significant difference, allowing us to keep delivering the quality performances you’ve come to expect and love.
Another way you can help is by taking a brief survey about what you want to see us produce next! These surveys help us gauge what programming is best for our community and how we can improve. (Link in bio).
Thank you for being such a vital part of our theatre community. We hope you can join us in celebrating 10 years of professional theatre in Northern Arizona by attending Lord and Lady Capulet’s Black, White, and Red Masquerade Ball on November 2!
Warmest thanks,
The FlagShakes Team
