- Attraction: Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
- Location: 499 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
- Industry: Theater
- Website: https://www.shakespearetavern.com
Picture walking into a theater where actors might pause mid-monologue to tease you about your ringing cell phone, or where you could accidentally become part of a sword fight just by walking in front of the stage.
The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse opened at 499 Peachtree Street in 1990 and specializes in a theatrical approach called original practice, which focuses on presenting the authentic aesthetics of the Elizabethan era.
The Shakespeare Tavern is home to the Atlanta Shakespeare Company, the first Shakespearean company in the United States to have performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in London, England.
America’s Only Original Practice Playhouse specializes in Shakespeare performance and education, performing at The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse in Midtown Atlanta. This isn’t your typical stuffy theater experience – it’s an immersive journey back to Shakespeare’s time where the line between audience and performer delightfully blurs.
After a $1.6 million renovation and expansion, the Atlanta Shakespeare Company re-opened the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse on October 15, 1999, complete with a Globe-inspired balcony that created an even more active Elizabethan actor/audience dynamic.
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Keep Exploring →Theatrical Excellence You’ll Remember
Original Practice Magic: The Atlanta Shakespeare Company has adopted original practice as a means to bring authenticity to a modern audience, with costumes that are usually hand-made period costumes, all music and sound effects are live, and actors often directly engage and say their lines to the audience.
You’ll witness authentic Elizabethan staging techniques that make each performance feel immediate and alive. When a cell phone goes off during the performance, the actors will acknowledge the interruption and mock you, particularly during a comedy.
Globe Theatre Experience: In spring 2006, after completing a $500,000 renovation, the Atlanta Shakespeare Company revealed a Globe-inspired façade, further adding to the Elizabethan feel of the Tavern. The intimate space puts you within 40 feet of the stage no matter where you sit, creating an electric connection between performers and audience that’s impossible to replicate in larger venues.
Stunning Sword Fights: You’ll be captivated by thrilling, choreographed combat scenes that feel dangerously real. If you walk in front of the stage during the performance, you will become part of the performance, even in the midst of a sword fight. The performers execute these sequences with precision and flair that makes every battle scene pulse with excitement.
Incredible Range of Shows: The Shakespeare Tavern produces 12-14 plays each year, the majority of which are Shakespearean plays. In spring 2011, the Atlanta Shakespeare Company became the first American company to complete the Shakespearean Canon with a production of Edward III. Beyond Shakespeare, you’ll find seasonal favorites and creative adaptations that keep the programming fresh and engaging.
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Discover MoreProfessional Caliber Performances: ASC is a bright and talented group of professionals who interpret, direct, produce and perform the works of Shakespeare. The production is solid in its design, and the fresh faces in the cast, new to the Tavern, infuse the show with a new energy that feels urgent. You’ll consistently encounter top-tier acting that brings these classic works to vivid life.
Delicious Pre-Show Dining
Famous Apple Crisp: Don’t forget the apple crisp at intermission! This beloved dessert has become a signature treat that theatergoers eagerly anticipate during every show’s intermission.
Hearty British Fare: The made-from-scratch menu varies seasonally, keeping some all-the-time favorites, and everything is fabulous with good-sized portions. You’ll discover items like Shepherd’s Pie, Cornish Pasty, and other British specialties that perfectly complement the theatrical atmosphere. If you see the corn chowder, grab it!
Tomato Bisque Perfection: You’ll love the tomato bisque soup and macaroni and cheese. The tomato soup is packed with flavor and has the perfect consistency, plus it’s served with a slice of zucchini bread. This warming soup offers rich, satisfying taste that perfectly complements the theatrical experience.
Cafeteria-Style Efficiency: Food service is cafeteria-style and is available 1 hour and 15 minutes before the performance; food service ends 10 minutes before show time. Even with large crowds, service by the kitchen is exceptionally efficient and friendly volunteers quickly remove trays and help patrons find utensils and condiments.
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Keep Exploring →Bob’s Bar Selection: Bob’s Bar is a fully-stocked lobby bar open pre-show and at intermission, and the bartender is probably a cast member from another show! You’ll enjoy craft beers offered in bottles and cans, plus select wines and soft drinks served by talented performers who bring theatrical energy to bartending.
Intimate Elizabethan Atmosphere
Globe-Inspired Design: You’ll enter the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse through a gorgeous Globe-inspired façade added in 2006 that stands out beautifully on this stretch of Midtown Atlanta. The architectural details transport you to Shakespeare’s era before the curtain even rises, creating anticipation for the authentic experience ahead.
Cozy Seating Options: You can choose from the Main Floor with tables and chairs within 25 feet of the stage, Box Seats slightly raised behind and to the side within 30 feet, and Balcony Views across three levels within 40 feet of the stage. Every seat offers an excellent view and genuine connection to the performance, with seating assigned first-come, first-served within each section.
Intimate Table Setting: You’ll dine at small tables adjacent to the stage that create a cozy, tavern-like atmosphere perfect for enjoying food and conversation before the show begins. The close proximity to performers makes every moment feel personal and engaging.
Historic Charm: The venue features wooden stairs leading to the lobby area where the whole experience begins. You’ll feel transported to another era from the moment you step inside this beautifully preserved space.
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Discover MoreOther Considerations
Affordable Pricing: You’ll find prices reasonable considering the generous portions and professional theater experience. Expect to spend about $30 per person for the complete dining and theater package. The combination of professional theater, dinner, and drinks offers exceptional value compared to separate dining and entertainment venues.
Convenient Parking: Parking couldn’t be easier with the hospital garage directly across the street. Show your theater ticket for discounted parking at just $5, or pay the regular $6 rate for a generous three-hour window. This hassle-free parking situation makes your evening stress-free from start to finish.
Family Traditions Welcome: The annual Christmas Carol production has become a beloved tradition for many Atlanta families. Business casual dress keeps things comfortable and accessible for all ages. You’ll appreciate how the atmosphere welcomes everyone from young children to grandparents without requiring formal attire.
Perfect Timing Strategy: Plan to arrive at least fifteen minutes before showtime if you want to eat, otherwise you’ll feel rushed getting food. The box office operates Tuesday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Arriving early lets you savor both the meal and the charming pre-show atmosphere.
Gluten-Free Options: You’ll find dietary accommodations including gluten-free choices available at meal, snack and dessert times. The kitchen thoughtfully caters to various dietary needs without compromising flavor or quality.
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Keep Exploring →Transit Accessibility: The theater sits conveniently near the North Avenue MARTA station on the red/gold rail line, making it easily accessible by public transportation. A seven-minute walk from the station puts you right at the theater’s distinctive Globe-inspired entrance.
Educational Impact: The theater’s education programs reach about 30,000 students annually through comprehensive programming from pre-K through college level. Summer camps, workshops, and intensive programs make Shakespeare accessible to the next generation while supporting the theater’s community mission.
Historic Achievement: With the opening of Henry VIII on June 2, 2019, the Shakespeare Tavern completed the Shakespearean canon for the second time. You’re experiencing theater at a venue that has achieved something no other American theater has accomplished twice.
Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
📍 499 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
