FAQ
Do you provide seating?
The production is lawn seating, so bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Those with high-back chairs will be seated behind low-back chairs and patrons on blankets. A limited amount of special needs seating is available.
Is there reserved seating?
There are a limited number of Saved Seats that can be purchased in advance. Please select that option when making your advanced ticket purchase here. Subject to availability.
What times does the box office open?
We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. Tickets may be purchased at the door beginning one hour and fifteen minutes prior to the production (6:15 pm for evening performances, 4:45 pm for family matinees). Cash, credit cards, and personal checks will be accepted for payment.
How do I get to the Summer Festival?
The Summer Festival is located at Rockwood Park at the corner of Shipley Road and Washington Street Extension in Wilmington, Delaware, just off of exit 9 of I-95. For a map and driving directions, click here.
Are masks required?
In line with current CDC recommendations for outdoor events, masks will be optional. Overall COVID policies for 2023 are still being determined.
Is vaccination required?
Delaware Shakespeare will not be checking vaccination status upon entry. Overall COVID policies for 2023 are still being determined.
Do you offer discounts for students or groups?
Yes! Student and group pricing for 2023 is still being determined. Check back this spring for more information!
What kind of access do you provide to the disabled and those with limited mobility?
The entire Summer Festival area is wheelchair accessible. It is necessary to traverse a gravel walkway and a grass lawn. The seating area is a grass lawn.
Are children welcome?
Yes, especially for family matinees (Sunday performances)! We strive to make Delaware Shakespeare productions appropriate for audiences of all ages, but we realize every family must set their own guidelines. If you have questions about an event’s subject matter or language, please contact us. One of our staff will be happy to discuss whether it is appropriate for your children.
Are pets welcome?
While Del Shakes loves furry friends, for the comfort and safety of all there are no pets allowed on Festival grounds.
What should I wear?
In the late summer, Delaware at twilight can begin warm and stay that way, or just as easily cool rapidly after the sun sets. Please check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. No need to be fancy! Come as you are, relax, and enjoy yourself.
Bugs?
Unfortunately, mosquitoes can be fans of Shakespeare too. We encourage you to bring bug repellent. Complimentary spray cans are available at multiple stations in the back of the audience seating area.
Do you have a concession stand?
Yes! Please visit our concession stand for light refreshments, as well as souvenir t-shirts.
Can I buy a meal?
If you don’t have time to pack a picnic, a selection of offerings from Janssen’s Market will be available.
May I bring food?
Yes, we encourage you to picnic before or during the show, but, of course, you can supplement your picnic with food, desserts, and wine from our concession stand.
May I bring alcoholic beverages?
If you are of-age. Please note that neither Delaware Shakespeare or Rockwood Park and New Castle County are liable for any use or misuse of alcohol during or after a Delaware Shakespeare performance.
Do you have restrooms?
Port-a-potties (wheelchair accessible) are available at the back of the lawn.
Is it okay to smoke?
Smoking is prohibited on the Summer Festival grounds.
May I use my cell phone?
As a courtesy to our actors and audience, cell phones must be on silent during the performances. We do not prohibit phones on the grounds, but all calls must be answered away from the performance space.
May I take photos?
The use of any type of camera or audio recorder during the performance is strictly prohibited unless authorized in advance by Delaware Shakespeare. Feel free to snap pictures of yourself, your friends, and the grounds while picnicking prior to the show.
What if it rains?
Read our full weather policy here. In short: summer showers in Delaware can revert to blue skies in a matter of minutes. Delaware Shakespeare continues to perform in a light rain. If it is not possible to continue, the performance will be canceled. In cases of extreme weather or lightning within 10 miles, the performance is canceled immediately. If a performance is canceled, we will offer you a voucher for a future performance.
