Causes: Arts & Culture, Arts Education, Fund Raising & Fund Distribution, Theater

Mission: Inspired by Shakespeare's work and the cultural richness of the United States, we reveal our collective humanity through illuminating interpretations of new and classic plays, deepened by the Kaleidoscope of rotating repertory.

Programs: From its inception, OSF has been a place of learning. Festival founder Angus Bowmer’s education mission of cultivating a lifelong love of the art of theatre and the works of William Shakespeare is flourishing as never before. OSF is able to enhance the education of tens of thousands of students every year through discounted tickets and on-site workshops. In addition, OSF's School Visit Program brings Shakespeare into hundreds of classrooms and communities throughout the West and as far east as Kansas and Arkansas. Over 100 classroom teachers were trained in the latest innovative methods of teaching Shakespeare's plays at OSF or at their schools this year. Nearly 1,000 more teachers received support and materials to instill an appreciation of dramatic literature and help them bring students to OSF. Lifelong learning is a vital part of the Festival tradition. Inspired by each season's plays, our offerings range from free discussions after performances to week-long retreats — there's something for everyone.