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Schauer Arts Center
FREE performances in the outdoor public courtyard
Hartford, WI
Sunday, August 16, 2026
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Show day weather:
(Will be added the morning of August 16) |
Navigation (This page, not your car. We'll get to that...)
Using this page
You’ve Planned Your Visit. Now Let’s Get You Here.
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This page is designed to work as your Shakespeare in the Park guide to the Schauer Arts Center
Use it on show day for things like....
We recommend bookmarking this page before heading to the park |
Companions = This Page + The Main SitP 2026 Page Work Together
The main SitP 2026 page contains a great deal of detailed information and is where you'll do your planning. This page focuses specifically on this location and might reference the more detailed info on the main page. Just to be 100% clear, the Schauer does indeed sell tickets to all their other shows however Shakespeare in the Park is 100% free to see.
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Please register
We highly recommend that you register to receive the fastest updates. The person who typically maintains this website is at the park and wifi can be spotty. The person who sends updates to people who register is sitting at a desk with an excellent internet connection. You decide. No pressure. ----- Details are on the Main SitP page - Navigate to "Gather Your Party" ------ |
Getting to the Schauer Arts Center
Arrival Lead Time
Shakespeare in the Park has never performed at the Schauer Arts Center, so we don't have historic attendance data to guide arrival recommendations. Because the free performances take place in the Schauer's enclosed outdoor courtyard, seating space is somewhat limited. Arriving 30–45 minutes before the first performance is not unreasonable if you want your choice of seating space for your lawn chair. See the entertainment schedule below for details.
Shakespeare in the Park has never performed at the Schauer Arts Center, so we don't have historic attendance data to guide arrival recommendations. Because the free performances take place in the Schauer's enclosed outdoor courtyard, seating space is somewhat limited. Arriving 30–45 minutes before the first performance is not unreasonable if you want your choice of seating space for your lawn chair. See the entertainment schedule below for details.
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Driving Directions
Schauer Arts Center 147 N Rural Street Hartford, WI 53027 The main street leading into Hartford is State Rd 60 aka w Sumner Street. The turn onto N Rural Street can sneak up on you. so pay close attention to your GPS. After your turn onto Rural, the very large arts center is in front of you to your left. |
Performance location
From the front of the building, to the left of the main doors, is an entryway to the outdoor courtyard. It's is a lovely setting, enclosed on 3 sides. The Schauer hosts well-attended, family-friendly events in the courtyard throughout the summer. Map Link
This map shows you performance locations, restrooms, where to park, helpful hints and more. The Shakespeare in the Park at Schauer Arts Center Google map The full Shakespeare in the Park 2026 map |
Getting around at the Schauer Arts Center
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Drop-off
Both for general use and ♿ mobility access, the best drop-off location is the front door sidewalk via the circular drive. Parking Plenty of parking in the lot. Accessibility ♿ The Schauer Arts Center courtyard is highly accessible and mobility-friendly. |
Walking
From the front doors, walk to your left to the open door leading to the courtyard. Note: The performance area is enclosed on 3 sides so space is limited. Walking between lawn chairs is on grass. Pathways The route from the parking lot into the courtyard is paved and flat and the seating area is on grass. |
Enjoy the Park
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Sun and Shade*
The performance area at the Schauer Arts Center is sunny earlier in the day. Unlike other Shakespeare in the Park locations in 2026, we will not be shifting the stage and seating area to follow the shade between performances. Did you bring a chair* Just a reminder even though it's probably too late since you're already here. Check-In / Info Tent* At the Schauer Arts Center, it will be located just outside the courtyard door.
Seating Surface Audience seating is on flat grass. Restrooms ♿ Restrooms including accessible restrooms are available inside the lobby. Exit the courtyard, turn left and traverse the sidewalk to the main doors. |
Picnic Tables.
There are no picnic tables at the Schauer Arts Center. If you bring your own folding table, please set up outside of the courtyard.
Concessions Light snacks will be available for a suggested donation starting at 1:00 PM Pets*
No pets, please. Service animals are always welcome at the Schauer Arts Center. *----- Details are on the Main SitP page -----
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Enjoying Shakespeare in the Park
It's all led up to this
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Bard's in the Backyard Schedule
1:00 PM ... Games and activities open Available all afternoon, including....
1:40 PM ... All About Richard III The low-down, the gossip, the history, and oh, the drama. 2:00 PM ... Richard III (Puppet Edition) Approximately 55 minutes. |
4:15 PM ... All About The Merry Wives of Windsor
Our version, and what we’ve gotten ourselves into. 4:30 PM ... Early Music Now Approximately 25 minutes. 5:00 PM ... The Merry Wives of Windsor: Falstaff’s Tale With live musical accompaniment by Early Music Now. Approximately 40 minutes. Program & Show Info
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Fun-Facts About the Schauer Arts Center
- Born from a Canning Factory: The building was originally a Libby, McNeill & Libby canning factory constructed in 1919. The complex still pays homage to its industrial past with soaring loft ceilings, large windows, and exposed rustic beams.
- A Million-Dollar Spark: The vision for the center was launched in 1995 with a $1,000,000 gift from local residents Fred and Bea Schauer.
- Door-to-Door Museums: The arts center shares a massive footprint with the Wisconsin Automotive Museum. Visitors can easily step right from the theater lobby into the museum to check out the massive collection of antique cars.
- Intimate Comedy Nights: The venue hosts The Comedy Zone, a stand-up series held in the cozy Pikes Peak room
Shakespeare in the Park is proud to be hosted by the Schauer Center for the Arts this summer. This gorgeous venue features the 571-seat Ruth A. Knoll Theater, hosts national touring acts, and serves as a vibrant community hub.
The outdoor courtyard is a major summer highlight for the center. Nestled between the Schauer Arts Center and the Hartford Recreation Center buildings, the Schauer Courtyard transforms into a lively, open-air community hub every June through August. Optimist Theatre is honored to be a part of it.
The outdoor courtyard is a major summer highlight for the center. Nestled between the Schauer Arts Center and the Hartford Recreation Center buildings, the Schauer Courtyard transforms into a lively, open-air community hub every June through August. Optimist Theatre is honored to be a part of it.
