Utah Shakespeare Festivals Announces Shakespeare Signature Retreat 

By Liz Armstrong, guest writer 

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is delighted to announce the launch of the new Shakespeare Signature Retreat for the 2026 season. An exclusive retreat for the sophisticated theatre lover, this is an event where world-class theatre meets all-inclusive luxury. 

Designed to grant unparalleled insider access to the ins and outs of the Shakespeare Festival, the retreat’s ultimate goal is to foster intimacy and connection with a “journey into the very soul of our stages.” 

Education Director Stewart Shelley is thrilled to offer this exclusive event to Festival patrons – comparing it to a lux “theatre land cruise, where every moment – from sunrise to curtain fall – is orchestrated to engage, inspire, and transform.”

From August 2 to August 7, 2026, the retreat will include accommodations and premiere seating at all eight productions. Three daily meals will be provided with the opportunity to dine with actors, directors, and creatives. Private backstage tours and personalized seminars will also be a major element of the retreat.

“This is the quintessential Utah Shakespeare Festival experience, where you can be carefree and relax and not have to worry about anything. We’ll take care of all the details.” Shelley said.

Unique to other Festival offerings, this retreat goes beyond a mere glimpse behind-the-scenes. Instead, it offers an immersive experience for a small, intimate group through every angle of theatre, from the costume shop to the rehearsal halls.

“We have hand-picked what to share from the 2026 season with our participants, as we’ve been working on it for nearly two years now,” Shelley continued. “We’ve been in design meetings with directors, dramaturgs, and the entire production team, and have lots of amazing experiences planned. This isn’t just a behind-the-curtain peek, but exclusive insider access.”

Shelley will be hosting the retreat alongside Instructional Coach Jim Wilcock. Availability is limited, with 20 of the 40 seats already filled. Submit an Interest Inquiry today to Education Programs Manager Sophia Bulloch to secure a spot.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to welcome guests into a beautifully curated week that celebrates both the artistry on our stages and the people who create it,” Bulloch said. “Designing this retreat has been incredibly meaningful, and I’m excited to watch participants step behind the scenes, engage with our artists, and experience the Festival in a uniquely personal and unforgettable way.”

For more information, visit bard.org/retreat.