Our History

In 1989, a passionate group of recently graduated students collaborated to build the Free Will Players Theatre Guild (FWP). Their goal was to embody a cooperative, community-driven, pass-the-hat style spirit, bringing the works of William Shakespeare to life through an outdoor summer Festival. Over 35 years, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival (originally known as the River City Shakespeare Festival), has attracted over 409,000 people with 56 main stage productions, remaining true to the original text and spirit while accenting new interpretations for a modern audience. 

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Located in the picturesque setting of Hawrelak Park, the festival unfolds under the enchanting 1100-seat, canopy-covered Heritage Amphitheatre. Over the course of four weeks, from late June to July, this idyllic outdoor venue becomes the stage for an immersive and unforgettable theatrical experience. The Freewill Shakespeare Festival is not just a celebration of artistry; it is also a significant source of employment, engaging over 50 dedicated individuals at the peak of the festival season. This diverse team includes actors, designers, stage managers, production managers, administrative assistants, publicists, and site/volunteer coordinators, all working in harmony to bring the magic of the Festival to life. Thirty percent of the FWP yearly budget goes towards artist fees, ensuring that the creative talents behind the productions are duly recognized and compensated for their invaluable contributions. 

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In 2020, we partnered with Thou Art Here and became the Free Willies and produced a travelling troubadour show to markets, parks, and front porches.

In 2021, we travelled in 2 shows, collaborating with the Fringe, a brief stint in Louis McKinney Park and private and public spaces.

In 2022, we were back in the Amphitheatre for A Midsummer Night's Dream and Measure for Measure. 

In 2023, Shakespeare in the Parking Lot in the Crystal Palace Spiegeltent.

In 2024, we present The Tempest, a new production touring across four parks in Edmonton.

 These challenges, along with reduced granting and audience return, have greatly impacted the financial stability of FWP but also highlighted the community-driven spirit that originally built this company and its ability to adapt to the changing environments of the arts in Edmonton. 

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Through pay-what-will ticketed shows, affordable ticket ranges, and a long history of supporting youth and young creatives,  the Free Will Players Theatre Guild and the Freewill Shakespeare Festival strive to promote artistic excellence, community collaboration, and a steadfast dedication to making the arts accessible.​​

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Read our 35 year retrospective here!