FREE FAMILY THEATER!

Montford Park Players is North Carolina’s Longest Running Shakespeare Festival. Join them for live Shakespeare and other great classics at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre (92 Gay Street, Asheville). Completely FREE to attend on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings all summer long! All productions at 7:30pm.

2024 LINEUP:

• Opening 5/10-5/26 – Edward III  … Edward III explores the military conquests and personal struggles of King Edward III. It delves into themes of power, love, and honor. Although it’s not one of Shakespeare’s most well-known works, it showcases his brilliant storytelling and poetic prowess. 

• Opening 5/31-6/23 – Richard II … Richard II portrays the downfall of King Richard II and the conflict between him and his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke. The play explores themes of power, legitimacy, and the consequences of misrule. It’s a fascinating exploration of political intrigue and the complexities of leadership.

• Opening 6/28-7/21 – Henry IV, 1.2 … In these plays, we see the challenges and conflicts that Henry faces as he tries to maintain his power and deal with rebellions. The plays also focus on the character of Prince Hal, who eventually becomes King Henry V. It’s a fascinating exploration of politics, power, and the complexities of leadership.

• Opening 7/26-8/25 – Henry V … Henry V begins with Henry’s transformation from a wild and carefree youth into a wise and inspiring leader. The play takes us through the events leading up to the famous Battle of Agincourt during the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. Henry V explores themes of leadership, patriotism, and the complexities of war. It’s a thrilling and patriotic play that showcases Henry’s remarkable growth and the challenges he faces as a king.

• Opening 8/30-9/22 – Henry VI 1.2.3 … These plays depict the power struggles, political conflicts, and battles between the houses of Lancaster and York as they vie for control of the throne. We witness the rise and fall of various characters, including the ambitious Richard, Duke of York, and the tragic downfall of King Henry VI himself. It’s a gripping tale of war, betrayal, and the quest for power.

• Opening 9/27/24 – 10/27/24 – Richard III … Richard III tells the story of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who manipulates and murders his way to the throne of England. It’s a tragic story filled with power struggles, deceit, and betrayal. Richard is known for his villainous nature and his famous line “Now is the winter of our discontent.”