Opening night celebrations at the Stratford Festival have evolved over the years and COVID has certainly had an effect on what we do here. Although we cannot comment for sure on what you can expect for future seasons, here are some tips & photos from past seasons along with links to resources in town you may find helpful when planning for your opening night.
As a repertory company we have openings throughout the season. These are known as "Early openers", "Mid Openers" & "Late Openers". The early openers launch our season and are usually the most productions we will open in any one week. In the past this has been up to 7 or 8 in one week. It's quite the opening night marathon!
The first production in the week is usually on Monday night at 7:30pm, where we roll out the red carpet and a piping band performs outside the Festival Theatre an hour before showtime. This celebration is for all staff and artists working in the season as well as for patrons and media. An opportunity to dress your best and pose on the red carpet or in front of the "stand and repeat" (sign that says "Stratford Festival" all over it).
Not sure what to wear?
Whatever makes you feel great and fits your budget! The first opening is "black-tie" and throughout the week people tend to get more and more casual ending the week with a lovely "night out at the theatre" summer look. However, fancy dresses, suits and tuxes are welcome at any opening. Looking to buy a new frock, get a haircut, have your nails done etc.? Check out some of the helpful links below!
Looking to dine out before the show? There are lots of great places to choose from for dinner in town but they book up quickly around opening nights. Be sure to call ahead and make a reservation weeks in advance. Check out our restaurants page for ideas!
Need a hotel? Sometimes family comes to visit and you need a place for them to stay. There are lots of great hotels and bed & breakfasts in town to choose from. However, just like the restaurants they book up fast. Be sure to make reservations early.
Photo to the Left, Lindsay Wu (left), Brefny Caribou (centre) & Allison Edwards-Crewe (right) standing infront of a "stand and repeat"
