Great River Shakespeare Festival 

About

Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears

This nationally recognized festival, which draws audiences from across the Midwest and acclaimed actors from across the country, fills each Winona summer with a full slate of world-class entertainment. With plays, music, speakers and celebration events, the Great River Shakespeare Festival is the cornerstone of Winona’s reputation as an unmatched destination for cultural events.

June 26-July 27, 2025 Season Announcement! 

The Comedy of Errors

Directed by Doug Scholz-Carlson

Starring William Sturdivant as Antipholus of Syracuse AND Antipholus of Ephesus and Emily Fury Daly as Dromio of Syracuse AND Dromio of Ephesus.

June 27 – July 27, 2025

Experience the uproarious mayhem of Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors! In this masterful blend of wit and whimsy, two sets of identical twins, separated at birth, create a riotous tapestry of mistaken identities and slapstick antics in the vibrant city of Ephesus. As love, loyalty, and chaos intertwine, the characters find themselves caught in a whirlwind of confusion, leading to heartwarming revelations and hysterical mix-ups.

With its sharp dialogue and lively pace, The Comedy of Errors is a celebration of the human experience, reminding us of the love that binds us—even when time and space parts us. Join us for a bold, new staging of this beloved farce.

Pictured: William Sturdivant and Emily Fury Daly.

Romeo and Juliet

Directed by H. Adam Harris

June 26 – July 26, 2025

Shakespeare never tells us why the Capulets hate the Montagues, just that they are “…both alike in dignity.” What happens to a community divided? Two young lovers are caught in the crossfire of their families’ bitter feud. With every stolen glance and whispered promise, their love ignites a fierce longing that knows no bounds, leading to a cascade of choices that will change their lives forever.

As their romance unfolds amidst a backdrop of rivalry and fate, Shakespeare’s eloquent words paint a vivid picture of love’s beauty and fragility. Experience the intensity of youth, the weight of family loyalty, and the tragic consequences of a world divided. Beloved actor and director H. Adam Harris returns to Minnesota to direct this new production.

Pictured: Director H. Adam Harris.

Location:

DuFresne Performing Arts Center (on the WSU Campus)
450 Johnson Street, Winona MN 55987

Ticket sales upcoming