
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Experience captivating Shakespeare and diverse plays in an intimate, in-the-round theater setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magic of live theater

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company
Best Time
Experience the magic of live theater

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience captivating Shakespeare and diverse plays in an intimate, in-the-round theater setting.
"There truly isn't a bad seat in the house; an absolute gem for live theater lovers."
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't wait! Popular productions at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company sell out fast. Secure your seats early.
🚗 Plan Your Parking
Nearby garages can fill up. Arrive 20-30 mins early to find parking and avoid stress.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shakespearean Classics
Otto M. Budig Theater
Experience timeless plays by Shakespeare performed with passion and skill in an intimate setting.

Modern Adaptations
Otto M. Budig Theater
Discover fresh takes on classic stories and contemporary works that resonate with today's audiences.

The Play That Goes Wrong
Otto M. Budig Theater
Prepare for non-stop laughter with this hilarious whodunit that's perfect for a fun night out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't wait! Popular productions at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company sell out fast. Secure your seats early.
🚗 Plan Your Parking
Nearby garages can fill up. Arrive 20-30 mins early to find parking and avoid stress.
🎭 Intimate Theater Experience
Enjoy excellent sightlines and acoustics; there's truly no bad seat in the house!
😂 Laugh Out Loud
Shows like 'The Play That Goes Wrong' are guaranteed to bring on the giggles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't wait! Popular productions at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company sell out fast. Secure your seats early.
🚗 Plan Your Parking
Nearby garages can fill up. Arrive 20-30 mins early to find parking and avoid stress.
🎭 Intimate Theater Experience
Enjoy excellent sightlines and acoustics; there's truly no bad seat in the house!
😂 Laugh Out Loud
Shows like 'The Play That Goes Wrong' are guaranteed to bring on the giggles.
🎶 Enjoy Pre-Show Art
Check out the art exhibitions in the Upper Gallery before the performance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company for its exceptional performances, intimate in-the-round theater, and welcoming atmosphere. Audiences rave about the talented cast, clear acoustics, and the overall high quality of productions, making it a must-visit for live theater enthusiasts. Some minor concerns might arise regarding parking availability during peak times.
"We went to see The Play That Goes Wrong. It was absolutely incredible, we laughed the whole time, interacted a bit and admired the energy of the performing artists which was consistent from the beginning to the last line. The theater itself is a very welcoming space with a great bar and clean facilities. Plenty of parking in the area."
JitkaKac
"I've seen many shows here and all have been wonderful. The sets and performances are excellent and there truly isn't a bad seat in the house. If you love live theater, you need to experience this Cincinnati gem."
Janet V
"Last night was the first time I had visited this lovely, intimate theater. I live 2.5 hours away but wanted to see The Play That Goes Wrong after hearing rave reviews of the play in general. It did not disappoint!! It was incredible. The acting, on point! The facial expressions, phenomenal! The comedic timing of this particular show, perfect! You could hear every actor clearly, it was comfortable in the house itself, the refreshments were tasty, and the overall experience I had last night will definitely bring me back for more. Bravo!"
Kelli Riffe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is located at 1195 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH. It's easily accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services or local buses.
There are several parking garages in the vicinity, including SP+ parking. It's recommended to arrive early, especially for evening shows, as parking can fill up quickly.
Yes, Cincinnati's public transportation system serves the area around the theater. Check local transit schedules for routes and times that best suit your travel plans.
Yes, ride-sharing services and taxis can drop you off directly at the entrance, making it a convenient option if you prefer not to worry about parking.
Using a GPS navigation app on your smartphone is highly recommended. For parking, consider looking up garage locations in advance to familiarize yourself with the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Cincinnati Shakespeare Company website, by phone, or at the box office. Booking in advance is strongly advised for popular shows.
Showtimes vary depending on the production, but typically include evening performances during the week and weekend matinees. Check the company's schedule for specific dates and times.
The company may offer discounts for students, seniors, or groups. It's best to check their website or contact the box office directly for current pricing and any available promotions.
While it's sometimes possible to purchase tickets at the door for less popular shows, it's not recommended. For the best selection of seats and to guarantee entry, buy your tickets in advance.
Policies can vary, so it's important to review the terms and conditions when purchasing tickets. Generally, exchanges may be possible for a fee, but refunds are often limited. Contact the box office for specifics.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Otto M. Budig Theater features an intimate, in-the-round seating arrangement, meaning there are no bad seats. You'll have a fantastic view of the performance from almost anywhere.
Yes, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company has a bar and offers refreshments. Many attendees enjoy grabbing a drink before the show or during intermission.
The theater is generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, such as wheelchair seating or assisted listening devices.
Performance lengths vary by play, but most shows run for approximately two to three hours, including an intermission. Check the specific show's page on their website for estimated run times.
Occasionally, the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company hosts pre-show discussions or events. Keep an eye on their website and social media for announcements about these enriching opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography and videography are generally prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the actors and other audience members. Flash photography is also not allowed.
You can usually take photos in the lobby or of the stage before the show begins or during intermission. However, always check for posted signs or ask theater staff if you're unsure.
The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company often shares professional production photos on their website and social media channels. These are great for capturing the essence of the show.
The lobby and exterior of the theater can make for nice photos. Some visitors enjoy capturing the unique in-the-round stage setup before the performance begins.
Focus on the architectural details of the Otto M. Budig Theater, the vibrant lobby, or candid shots of the audience enjoying the pre-show buzz.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family visit, it's always a good idea to check the specific show's content advisories or contact the box office to ensure it's appropriate for your children's age group. The intimate theater setting also means kids can often see and hear clearly, enhancing their enjoyment of the performance.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider attending weekday performances, which may be less expensive than weekend shows. Additionally, the value of the experience—a professionally produced play in an intimate setting—often makes it a worthwhile splurge for budget-conscious travelers looking for cultural immersion.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Choosing a comedy or a well-loved classic can be a great way to share an enjoyable evening. The shared experience of laughter or emotional engagement with a performance can be a wonderful bonding opportunity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique In-the-Round Experience
This intimate setting is particularly effective for Shakespearean plays, allowing the raw emotion and intricate dialogue to resonate deeply. The actors must be constantly aware of their audience on all sides, leading to dynamic and captivating performances. Visitors often remark on how this setup makes them feel like they are part of the story, rather than just passive observers.
For those seeking a truly special theater experience, the in-the-round stage at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company is a must-try. It transforms the act of watching a play into a shared event, highlighting the company's commitment to innovative and audience-centric productions.
Beyond Shakespeare: A Diverse Season
Recent seasons have featured critically acclaimed productions of plays like Henrik Ibsen's 'An Enemy of the People' and popular comedies such as 'The Play That Goes Wrong.' This commitment to a broad repertoire demonstrates the company's artistic ambition and its dedication to providing Cincinnati with a rich and varied theatrical landscape.
This programming strategy makes the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company a vital cultural hub, offering audiences a chance to explore different genres, styles, and themes. It's a testament to their mission to make great theater accessible and relevant to a wide audience, proving that 'Shakespeare' in their name is more about a legacy of powerful storytelling than a strict limitation on their artistic output.
Community and Collaboration
This collaborative spirit extends to their programming and outreach. They often partner with other arts groups for special events and initiatives, aiming to amplify the impact of arts and culture in the city. This approach not only supports other artists but also provides unique experiences for patrons, blending different artistic disciplines for a more holistic cultural engagement.
Furthermore, the company is known for its dedicated ensemble of actors and staff who contribute to the welcoming atmosphere. This collective effort creates a vibrant and supportive environment that is palpable to visitors, making each experience at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company feel like a visit to a beloved local institution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit