About us

The Bristol Shakespeare Festival is a Community Interest Company (CIC), founded in 2003 and run by a team of dedicated volunteers passionate about bringing the freshest, most exciting productions of Shakespeare’s plays to some of Bristol’s most beautiful and unusual spaces every summer during the month of July.

In previous years the very best national touring companies, including The Lord Chamberlain’s Men and Shakespeare’s Globe, have taken part alongside other exceptional companies, schools, youth groups, special educational needs and disability arts groups.

Our touring companies have performed in many unique and special spaces across Bristol, including Redcliffe Caves, Brandon Hill Bowling Green, Leigh Woods, The Rope Walk Pub, The Tobacco Factory, The Alma Tavern, Boiling Wells Amphitheatre, Blaise Castle and Ashton Court Estate. 

The Bristol Shakespeare Festival currently receives no public funding and is produced entirely by volunteers. We are therefore extremely grateful to our sponsors, partners and venues, whose support has enabled the Festival to grow over the years.

We look forward to welcoming you back for our latest array of theatrical talent, picnic spots and revelry in 2017!

Meet the Team

We have a small but dedicated committee passionate about bringing the Bard to our favourite city.

Suzanne Booth – Artistic Director

Jacqui Ham – Festival Manager

Fabi Melegari – Volunteer Manager

Elinor Lower – Marketing & Partnerships Producer

Afi Walker – Programme and Brand Design