Student Matinees

For over fifty years, students of all ages have enjoyed the thrill of experiencing classic plays, professionally produced by Great Lakes Theater. Some of those students are now teachers themselves, and carry on the tradition of introducing the finest works of world literature to the next generation.

• Our student audiences experience the very same top quality productions offered to our evening patrons, but at a fraction of the cost.
• The gorgeously renovated Hanna Theatre is state-of-the-art, yet retains the classical thrust stage configuration of Shakespeare’s own Globe Theatre, affording students a dynamic audience experience unequaled in our region.
• Great Lakes’ classic plays align with teaching curricula and state standards.
• Our Teacher Preparation Guides help prepare students for your visit, as well as provide educational activities for classroom use long after the final curtain.
• Chat with the cast! Enhance your students' experience by staying afterward to participate in a matinee cast and crew Q&A! Request this program when you reserve your matinee tickets. (Note: Subject to availability.)

Request your tickets!

“Our students had limited exposure to Shakespeare, and we had studied the play before attending. Experiencing the live performance gave them a much better understanding of the relationships between the characters, which the simple words on the page do not necessarily convey to the novice reader." 
– Michael McNamee, Facing History New Tech High School

“I love when we get to see a show we studied in class. When they understand a line or scene in a new way: that is amazing!”
– Lynn Monaco, Chardon High School

The very essence of education is about introducing yourself to humanity’s greatest achievements, and then finding ways to incorporate those achievements into your own life. Once the door of classic literature is opened to your students, there is no telling who may become the next William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Jane Austin or Agatha Christie.

Let the journey begin.

Request your tickets!

"...For many, this was a first play, or certainly a first experience of Shakespeare.  Only some of our students have had the privilege of seeing a production at Great Lakes!  So many told me that they were afraid they wouldn't understand it, and wouldn't have fun, even though we definitely prepared everyone for the experience.  But they had a blast!!!

Thank you for being a highpoint in our educational year.  My best to you, your staff, the actors, and the production staff for a safe, healthy rest of the season.  We look forward to returning next year!"
- Elaine Fippin, Our Lady of the Elms High School

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