Often called the Broadway of the West Coast, the Oregon Shakespearean Festival (OSF) is one of the region's biggest attractions, boasting multiple Tony Awards and accolades. TIME named it as one of the top five regional theater companies in the country. February through November, Oregon Shakespearean Festival produces 11 world-class productions by classical and contemporary playwrights, crafted by some of the biggest talents in theater today.
The Festival was officially opened on July 2, 1935 with a production of Twelfth Night. Reserved seats cost $1, with general admission of $.50 for adults and $.25 for children. Even at these prices, the Festival covered its own expenses. The Festival also absorbed the losses of the daytime boxing matches that the city held onstage.
Today, eight decades later, OSF offers world-class entertainment and education to aspiring actors, artists, directors and producers, alike, through classes and camps held throughout the year.
OSF has three theatres: two indoor stages, the Angus Bowmer Theatre and the Thomas Theatre. Its flagship outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre is open early June through mid-October.