Thomas Coppola

American Shakespeare Center

The American Shakespeare Center recovers the joys and accessibility of Shakespeare's theatre, language, and humanity by exploring the English Renaissance stage and its practices through performance and education. In our hometown of Staunton, Virginia, the ASC has constructed a re-creation of Shakespeare's original indoor theatre, the Blackfriars Playhouse. We perform 52 weeks a year employing Shakespeare's Staging Conditions including universal lighting, having the actors and the audience share the same light. In addition to giving performances at the Blackfriars, the ASC on Tour travels the U.S. and abroad with the same unique brand of Shakespeare that thrills, delights, and educates its audiences. The ASC's Education Center brings Shakespeare's plays to life for teachers, students, and learners of all ages. Our offering of workshops, performances, leadership training, and summer programs are specially tailored for you to experience Shakespeare as you never have before.