The facility was built in 1985 as a gift from Wynton and Carolyn Blount to the state of Alabama.
The building's design was inspired by the symmetry and scale of classical Italian villas.
The complex is surrounded by an English-style garden and a 10-acre lake maintained by the theater's endowment.
The venue originally operated in Anniston, Alabama, before relocating to its current purpose-built campus in Montgomery.
The Festival Stage is modeled after the thrust-stage configuration of the original Shakespearean Globe.
The Alabama Shakespeare Festival is a professional, LORT C regional theater housed within the Carolyn Blount Theatre complex in Montgomery. It stands as one of the largest Shakespeare theaters in the world by facility scale. The campus is situated within the 250-acre Wynton M. Blount Cultural Park. The venue features two distinct performance spaces: the 750-seat Festival Stage and the 225-seat Octagon stage. It produces a mix of classical works, contemporary plays, and world premieres throughout its season. The architecture incorporates extensive glass walls that look out onto the surrounding parkland and lake. It serves as a major cultural anchor for the River Region, drawing international talent and patrons.
The lakeside view from the outdoor terrace directly behind the main theater building.
Walk the park trails around the lake before your show for prime wildlife viewing, including local waterfowl.
Arrive early to explore the lobby's rotating art installations which often complement the current theatrical season.
Check the website for 'Talk Back' sessions held immediately following select performances to discuss the production with cast members.
Do not attempt to walk from downtown Montgomery as the park is located in a suburban area not connected by pedestrian-friendly paths.
Mainstage seasons typically run from late summer through spring; dark on Mondays.
Business casual is standard, though attire ranges from formal to casual; silence all electronic devices during performances.
