Directions
Summer Shakespeare Festival
The courtyard outside of the Hoffman Auditorium at the University of Saint Joseph
1678 Asylum Avenue
West Hartford, CT - 06117
Tips for the Perfect Festival Evening
What to bring…besides your family and friends.
Our outdoor performances are held on the lawn. Make yourself comfortable. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets, since the theater does not provide outdoor seating. On a cool evening you may want a sweater. If it rains, we’ll go inside, but a few minor sprinkles won't stop us, so be sure to bring an umbrella, if the weather looks iffy.
Pick your perfect spot. We provide an up-close section for blankets and low-seat lawn chairs. Regular chairs go right behind, so everyone can see. Reserved seating is available for groups of 10 or more. That said, there are no bad locations on the USJ lawn or inside the Bruyette Athenaeum!
Sun or shade … your Sunday choice. At our 5:30 P.M. Sunday performances, choose either the sunny side of the lawn (left of the stage) or shady side (right side of the stage).
While we are adding sound amplification this year, consider sitting close to the action if hearing may be a concern. Or, you can come on a rainy day, and enjoy the indoor acoustics of air-conditioned Bruyette Athenaeum, our rain location situated adjacent to the outdoor space.
Be sure to bring food and drink for a picnic — as simple or elegant as you please. From Doritos to Dom Perignon, we’ve seen it all. And, since we are outdoors, you can start the party as early as you like to enjoy some sunshine and a picnic dinner … the lawn is always open!
Inclement Weather Policy
The show always goes on! Ideally outdoors, but indoors, if the elements don’t cooperate.