Shakespeare & Company has announced a $25,000 Match Challenge made by an anonymous donor to benefit the Fall Festival of Shakespeare. Every dollar contributed to the company’s Education Program before the close of Fall Festival Weekend, November 21 – 24, will be doubled up to $25,000.
Now in its 36th year, the Fall Festival of Shakespeare brings together more than 500 high school students from 10 schools across Massachusetts and New York for a nine-week, non-competitive exploration of Shakespeare’s plays culminating in full-scale productions at their schools and on the main stage at the Tina Packer Playhouse.
Director of Development Sunie Gorey expressed her excitement about the challenge.
“We deeply appreciate the generosity of our donors and their unwavering commitment to our mission,” she said. “This matching challenge not only strengthens our Fall Festival but also fosters a culture of philanthropy within our community. The impact and significance of the Fall Festival are truly inspiring and invaluable.”
Director of Education Kevin G. Coleman added he hopes to reach the $25,000 goal in time to announce the match during Fall Festival Weekend, November 21 – 24.
“By donating today, you not only ensure the continuation of this extraordinary program but also unlock a dollar-for-dollar match,” he said, noting that spreading the word on social media or among groups of friends and family also helps. “We’d be delighted if you would tell us what the Fall Festival has meant to you.”
Fall Festival of Shakespeare performances at Shakespeare & Company are held from Thursday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 24, and is open to the public, featuring shows produced by students from:
- Berkshire Waldorf High School, Great Barrington, Mass.
- Pittsfield High School, Pittsfield, Mass.
- Taconic Hills Jr/Sr High School, Craryville, N.Y.
- Lenox Memorial High School, Lenox, Mass.
- Mount Everett Regional School, Sheffield, Mass.
- Lee Middle & High School, Lee, Mass.
- Monument Mountain Regional High School, Great Barrington, Mass.
- Springfield Central High School, Springfield, Mass.
- Mt. Greylock Regional High School, Williamstown, Mass.
- Chatham High School, Chatham, N.Y.Donations may be made at shakespeare.org, or by calling the Development office at 413.637.1199, ext. 145. Tickets are available for purchase at shakespeare.org or by calling the Box Office at 413.637.3353. For more information, please visit shakespeare.org.About Shakespeare & CompanyShakespeare & Company was founded in 1978 by Tina Packer. Located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, the Company offers performance, education, and actor-training opportunities year-round, and attracts more than 40,000 patrons annually with a core of more than 150 artists.
