Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival presents world premiere of EMMA, December 5-December 14

What if you could step directly into the pages of Jane Austen? This holiday season, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival (FlagShakes) makes that irresistible fantasy a reality with the premiere of Emma and a glittering Regency Ball inspired by Austen’s iconic world of wit, romance, and social intrigue.

A Classic Comedy Comes to Life

Smart, spirited, and beloved for more than two centuries, Emma remains one of Austen’s most charming and delightfully mischievous works. Under the direction of FlagShakes favorite James Cougar Canfield, this new production blends Regency elegance with a bright, contemporary sensibility—reminding us why stories like Clueless still echo Austen’s brilliance today.

Audiences will follow Emma Woodhouse as her well-intended matchmaking sparks delightful chaos, unexpected romance, and ultimately, a journey toward self-knowledge. Filled with flirtation, folly, sparkling banter, and the unmistakable thrill of first love, Emma promises a cozy, joyous escape just in time for the holidays.

Step Into Austen’s World: Emma’s Regency Ball

For theatre lovers seeking an even more immersive experience, FlagShakes presents an unforgettable evening of Regency-era enchantment: Emma’s Regency Ball, held for one night only on December 12 at the historic Riordan Mansion.

Guests will be welcomed into a candlelit world of merriment featuring:

• Regency-era games and diversions
• Scenes and songs from Emma (with a touch of Christmas cheer)
• A silent auction filled with beloved local experiences
• A breathtaking tintype portrait session by photographer Eric Retterbush, posed before the holiday decked fireplace
• Seasonal treats, warm beverages, and festive surprises

And for those hoping to craft the perfect look, FlagShakes and Threaded Together are partnering to offer a special Regency accessory and costume workshop—details coming soon on FlagShakes’ social media channels.

While guests of all ages are welcome, the event is designed with adults in mind—offering elegance without pretense and celebration without pressure. There is no dancing required—just convivial 

company and a night of Austen-inspired delight.

“These events are about joy, connection, and inviting our community to gather in a spirit of celebration,” says Dawn Tucker, Executive Director for FlagShakes. “Austen’s stories are warm and generous, and that’s the atmosphere we want to create—welcoming, lively, and full of heart.”

Emma — A Holiday Production

December 5–14, Beaver Street Theatre

Tickets: https://flagshakes.org/tickets

Emma’s Regency Ball

December 12, Riordan Mansion

Tickets: https://flagshakes.org/tickets

Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival presents SIMPLY SILLY SHAKESPEARE: a theatre for young audiences show, on July 26

ONE DAY ONLY - Saturday July 26th at 10am

Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival is bringing the silliness outside! Simply Silly Shakespeare is a fast-paced, forty-five minute comedy full of Shakespeare-inspired songs, scenes, and laugh-out-loud interactive moments—all crafted to delight kids, teens, and adults alike.

Created by and starring Flagstaff favorites Matthew Windham and AJ Maniglia, directed by Essie Windham, and featuring original music, this is Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it: playful, musical, and made for families.

Bring the whole crew—this show is fidget-friendly and welcomes all ages, from toddlers to teens to grown-ups who just love to laugh. The performance is designed to be interactive, inclusive, and totally entertaining— whether you've never seen a Shakespeare play before or you’ve completed the cannon!

ONE performance only:

Saturday at July 26th at 10am – perfect for kids and families

Tickets on sale now: FlagShakes.org/Tickets

Come play, laugh, and get silly with Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival in the pines at Lowell Observatory!

FlagShakes' Bold Summer Season Under the Stars at Lowell Observatory!

This summer, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival (FlagShakes) returns to the breathtaking grounds of Lowell Observatory with two electrifying productions under the festival tent: William Shakespeare’s towering tragedy "King Lear" and the side-splitting comedy "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" (abridged) [revised] [again]" by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield.

This exhilarating double bill showcases the full range of Shakespearean storytelling — from the stormy depths of human sorrow to the joyful chaos of fast-paced parody.

KING LEAR

Directed with FlagShakes’ signature clarity and emotional depth, King Lear is a powerful exploration of power, betrayal, madness, and redemption. The production draws audiences into Lear’s unraveling world that tests loyalty and love against ambition and cruelty. With the dramatic beauty of Lowell Observatory as a backdrop, this timeless tragedy comes alive under the starlit night sky.

Friday, July 11th at 7pm

Saturday, July 12th at 7pm

Saturday, July 19th at 2pm

Sunday, July 20th at 2pm

Friday, July 25th at 7pm

Saturday, July 26th at 7pm

Thursday, July 31st at 7pm

Friday, August 1st at 7pm

Saturday, August 2nd at 2pm

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED) [REVISED] [AGAIN]

In contrast, the season's second show is an outrageous whirlwind through all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays — plus the sonnets — in just 90 hilarious minutes. Performed by just three actors armed with costumes, props, and plenty of wit, this irreverent romp includes updates for a new generation of theatregoers. Whether you're a Bard buff or a total newbie, this laugh-out-loud experience is the perfect summer treat.

Thursday, July 10th at 7pm

Saturday, July 12th at 2pm

Sunday, July 13th at 2pm

Friday, July 18th at 7pm

Saturday, July 19th at 7pm

Thursday, July 24th at 7pm

Saturday, July 26th at 2pm

Sunday, July 27th at 2pm

Saturday, August 2nd at 7pm

Sunday, August 3rd at 2pm

“We're thrilled to offer audiences two vastly different, yet equally compelling experiences this season,” FlagShakes Executive Director Dawn Tucker said. “King Lear reminds us of the enduring power of Shakespeare’s insight into the human condition, while Complete Works invites everyone — young and old — to laugh and fall in love with the Bard all over again.”

Season Dates: July 10-Aug. 4, 2025

Location: Lowell Observatory, 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff, AZ

Tickets: Visit FlagShakes.org/tickets for full schedule and ticket information.

Discounts available for seniors, students and families.

Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival is proud to continue making professional, high-quality theatre accessible to northern Arizona. Join us under the stars for a season of tragedy, comedy and unforgettable storytelling.

Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival's 2025 Season!

CLICK HERE for more information