The Frederick Shakespeare Festival
The Frederick Shakespeare Festival is a beloved summer tradition where professional theatre companies unite to breathe new life into classic texts across the historic stages of Frederick.
The Frederick Shakespeare Festival was born in 2019 out of a shared dream to bring the timeless power of the Bard back to the heart of Maryland. What began as a bold endeavour by festival co-founders Christine Mosere and Aaron Angello has since blossomed into a cherished community institution.
Longtime Frederick residents may remember the Maryland Shakespeare Festival which shuttered in 2012 and our our inaugural season proved that its presence was very much missed amongst the local arts community -- there was a deep hunger for classical theatre in Frederick. Today, we continue to build on that foundation, fostering artistic growth and creating accessible, high-quality performances for everyone.
In recent years the Frederick Shakespeare Festival has evolved into a collaboritive partnership between several professional theatre companies, primarily being organized by the Endangered Species theatre Project, Unstrung Harpist Productions, and Ardeo Theatre Company.Festival seasons feature a robust line up of two to three Main Stage productions as well as a variety of Side Stage productions that include events such as educational youth shows, actively staged readings, Bard-inspired comedy nights, and more!
Established 2019
Our Founding
Festival Organizers
Challenging, inspireing, and entertaining audiences by bringing new and classic works to the stage with passion, compassion, and uncompromised artistry.
Producing original works and breathing new life into classical material by experimenting boldly with sight, sound, and movement.
Bringing enjoyment and understanding through live theatre that proactively focuses on diverse representation to our community.
The Spirit of Collaboration
The Frederick Shakespeare Festival is a unique alchemy of three professional companies—Ardeo Theatre, Unstrung Harpist, and Endangered Species Theatre. Together, we share resources, artistic visions, and a deep commitment to the community, transforming Frederick into a living stage where the Bard’s words bridge our diverse histories and artistic strengths.