The National Endowment for the Arts identified Shakespeare Troupe as offering challenges unlike any other pre-college theatre program in the nation.

Directed by Jeanne E. Harrison, Founder and Producing Artistic Director, Shakespeare Troupe is our Theatre Conservatory for dedicated students eager to sink their teeth into linguistically and physically challenging plays.  Our program reflects the origins of theatre when troupes of actors roamed the ancient and medieval countryside, relying on the barest props and boldest imagination to convey their art.

Troupe rehearses a full-length professionally directed and designed Shakespearean play — then takes the show on the road with a performance tour to amphitheaters throughout Virginia, including professional stages, cultivating stronger, more adaptable and capable artists and individuals.  This rigorous six week summer program offers high schoolers the experience of a professional-level production.

Actors are carefully guided by a trio of directors - acquiring advanced acting techniques that lead to new levels of boldness and subtlety. Technicians work closely with professional designers - gaining new skills as well as new portfolio pieces.

This immersive and holistic experience allows our elite high school actors & technicians to attain a new level of artistry, confidence, leadership, and independence.