I just returned from a whirlwind 28 hours in Winona attending the
Great River Shakespeare Festival (GRSF) for the 5th time. It's become a summer tradition for me and some of my fellow
Twin Cities Theater Bloggers (TCTB), and one that I hope will never end. Seeing multiple plays in rep performed by a company of talented actors from around the country in one weekend, in a location away from your home and daily life, allows for a unique and immersive theater experience, and one that's unique in the state of Minnesota. Winona is such a lovely town with plenty of other activities that we vowed to stay longer next year so we could enjoy the many restaurants and shops (which are often closed on Sunday), outdoor activities, museums, and more. GRSF is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and for more on the history, present, and future of the festival listen to the 4th episode of TCTB's new podcast "Twin Cities Theater Chat," in which we interview Artistic Director Doug Scholz-Carlson and Co-Associate Artistic Director Melissa Maxwell (
available here or wherever you listen to podcasts).
GRSF runs through the end of July, so you still have time to plan a mini-vacay and enjoy all that the festival,
and the city of Winona, has to offer.
