What is this event?
This is a promenade-style experience where audience members are led down a walking path and encounter various Shakespearean vignettes.
How long is the experience?
The experience is about 45-50 minutes long.
How much walking is required?
The total journey is under a mile on a smooth gravel path.
What if it rains?
The Bard at Bristow – An Immersive Stroll is a rain-or-shine outdoor event. Performances will continue in light intermittent rain, so please dress for the weather and path conditions. In the event of severe weather (lightning, high winds, or heavy rain), the event may be canceled for safety. As this is limited run community event, we’re unable to offer refunds. If canceled and we are not able to shift your tickets to another performance, your ticket will be considered a tax-deductible donation, and you’ll receive an email confirmation. Thank you for supporting professional outdoor theatre in New Canaan!
Is this ADA Accessible?
Yes! The trail is on a gravel path with low grade slopes and is suitable for ambulatory devices.
What should I bring?
This is a walking experience so we encourage you to wear comfortable sneakers for your journey. As this performance happens outdoors, we also recommend checking the weather and dressing for the temperature so that you are comfortable. Water will be available at the ticket table, but no other drinks or snacks will be available. Consider bringing a bug repellent.
Parking?
Free parking is available in Mead Park. The performance entrance is at the southwest corner of the park, past the baseball fields and across from the Apple Cart Food Company snack bar. The address is 241 Park St, New Canaan, CT 06840. There will be no access to the performance via the Old Stamford Road entrance to Bristow Bird Sanctuary.
Content Advisory?
This experience includes Renaissance Faire style sword fighting and witchcraft.
When should I arrive?
We request that you arrive 15 minutes early to check in and experience the pre-show which begins 5-10 minutes prior to your scheduled performance. There will be no late entry due to the nature of the performance. If you arrive late, we will try to fit you into the next available start time.
Is this for children?
While this event is not developed for children, all ages are welcome. Due to the group sizes and for the best enjoyment of the experience, we strongly encourage strollers to be left in your car or at check-in. All participants over 1 years old should be ticketed.
What about restrooms?
Park restroom facilities are available. There will be a porto-potty available about halfway thru the event if needed, but there is no specific break in the performance.
What Shakespeare plays are included?
Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It, The Tempest, and Macbeth, with additional sonnets and music.
What do the different times mean for tickets?
There are different time-slots as there is a staggered entry with groups of about 15 people at a time. The experience is the same for each time-slot. Please note, we request that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your performance time-slot for check-in and a pre-show experience.
Is this a professional production?
Yes! The Summer Theatre of New Canaan contracts with Actors’ Equity Association, the union for professional Actors and Stage Managers.
How do I learn more about Bristow Bird Sanctuary?
Over 100 years old, the Helen and Alice Bristow Bird Sanctuary and Wildwood Preserve is the 3rd oldest bird sanctuary in the US! Learn more about the park and its recent revitalization at https://bristowpark.com/.
