EPS Ventures: The Stages and Stories of Ashland
July 14-18, 2026
Join us for a summer theater adventure to Ashland, Oregon! If you’ve enjoyed school productions or local theatre in the Seattle area, experiencing the Oregon Shakespeare Festival will feel refreshingly elevated without being overwhelming. Instead of a single show in a familiar auditorium, you’ll immerse yourself in a vibrant theatre community where world-class productions unfold across multiple stages—intimate indoor spaces, open-air venues, and everything in between. The backstage tour and stage design workshop offer an exciting behind-the-scenes start, but once you settle into the rhythm of the festival, the pace becomes steady and intentional, with plenty of time to discuss what you’ve seen, reflect on the artistry, and connect with fellow students who share your passion. It’s the kind of trip where you unplug from daily routines, settle into the creative energy of Ashland, and feel more connected to the power of live performance each day.
What really sets this experience apart is how present the theatrical world feels. You may find yourself captivated by the comedy and magic of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, moved by the powerful themes in A Raisin in the Sun, or swept up in the emotional journey of Come From Away. With seven productions ranging from Shakespeare’s classics like Taming of the Shrew and Henry IV to contemporary works like Emma and You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World, you’ll witness the full spectrum of theatrical storytelling. Compared to watching a single show at home, where the experience ends when the curtain falls, Ashland’s festival atmosphere lets you observe how professional artists bring stories to life night after night, and the hands-on workshop gives you insight into the creative process from the inside. Over four days and five nights, you build confidence in analyzing and appreciating theatre, form friendships with peers who share your interests, and develop a deep appreciation for a place that’s both artistically rich and genuinely welcoming. It’s an adventure, yes—but one designed to be thoughtful, supportive, and unforgettable, offering a summer experience that feels meaningful rather than intimidating.
This first-time opportunity is being offered to current EPS students in grades 7-11. The group will be flying down and back from nearby Medford, Oregone and staying in a comfortable youth hostel in downtown Ashland. Students will be supported and joined by two faculty leaders/chaperones: Lisa Frystak and Rick MacKenzie, from our Fine and Performing Arts Department. Reach out to either of them or David Kelly-Hedrick with any questions. The all-inclusive cost is $1200 with financial aid available. The deadline for EPS applications is Friday, March 27.
More information and to apply, see the following: EPS OSF Summer 2026 Student Application