How to Have a Great Theatre Festival Experience

There are so many different types of theatre festivals found all over the world — and each comes with its own vibe. However, it doesn’t matter if this is your first one or if you are a seasoned attendee, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you have a great theatre festival experience every single time. 

Pay attention to these tips. 

Research the Venue – And the Surrounding Area

It is always a good idea to research the venue where the theatre festival is being held so that you can take advantage of all it has to offer, as well as know what to expect. For instance, can you bring food and drink? Is there seating or should you bring a chair or blanket? Is it outdoors or indoors? Knowing these sorts of details can contribute to your overall theatre festival experience and make sure that it is pleasantly memorable. 

If the venue is not in your backyard locally and you have to travel to it, there are additional considerations that you will want to address, such as finding a place to stay and how to get around once you are there. 

Be sure to find accommodations that make getting to and from the venue easy, especially if it is one that lasts more than one day. Also, you will need to consider the best mode of travel while you are there. Should you plan on taking your own vehicle or using a rideshare or public transportation? Find the answer to these questions and others like them before you go. 

You never want to just jump into a festival without knowing all the details about its venue and overall location. That way you won’t have to worry about any mishaps or anything getting in your way of an enjoyable festival experience.  

Discover the Performances in Advance

Theatre festivals could last one day only, but that isn’t the likely scenario. In fact, most last for at least a couple of days whereas some have been known to span an entire month or two. It all depends on the festival. And that means there may be a handful of performances or there may be many, many offerings. 

It is always a good idea to research the schedule well in advance. 

Know about the performances you can expect and when you can see them. Then, you can be sure to plan your time at the festival in a way that will give you the opportunity to see what you want to see without wasting time on those you don’t. 

Of course, this is also crucial if you need to buy advance tickets. Buy early so you won’t miss out. 

Level Up Your Experience with Extras

In all this research you are doing before the festival, you are likely to learn about other opportunities you may have in addition to the performances itself. For many avid festival-goers, it is these extras that take the experience to the next level. 

Depending on the festival, you may come across a few unique items on the schedule, such as time spent with the actors and performers, Q&A sessions, open mic nights, and more. These are always as fun as they are insightful. 

What’s more, don’t be surprised if your festival has vendors. Many arts and crafts vendors, as well as those in the food and beverage industry, love to be part of theatre festivals and help to shape the experience. 

Experience the Theatre at Forestburgh Playhouse

At Forestburgh Playhouse, we encompass all who enjoy theatre – including those on stage, those behind the scenes, and those in the audience. We always do what we can to ensure that you have the best experience, whether at a theatre festival or not. 
Purchase your tickets online for our current offerings and Fall Series, including The Rocky Horror Picture Show Live!