What does the Festival look like this year?
For 2021, rather than having the Festival at the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park, Freewill will be performing for private and public events, in backyards and communities around Edmonton. We will also have performances at the Edmonton Fringe Festival.
When is the Festival running?
A full schedule of events can be found under our Shows tab.
Can I book a performance?
At this time, our schedule is fully booked. We will be at various community leagues over the course of the Festival - you can find out which leagues we are at, and when, on the schedule of events. If you would like to join our waiting list, you can book here website.
What options are available when I book?
We are no longer taking bookings. Thank you for all your support and we hope to see you at the Fringe.
How much does it cost?
We have suggested a fee of $500 for a fully costumed, high quality play, but we believe in providing fun and accessible Shakespeare, so we are willing to discuss options with you. You may also be able to purchase some extras for additional fees. This might include a beer or snack package.
How much space is required for a performance?
We’ll need a 14’ wide X 12’ deep performance area, with a minimum of two totally free household outlets and reasonable access to the event space for load in. If you aren’t sure, send us pictures – we’ll find the best set-up with your space to make it work! Please ensure there are three parking spaces available within one block of the performance area. We will also need access to a space where actors can change and prepare before the performance.
Do I need to provide any equipment?
No! We bring the whole production with us.
What if I have pets at home?
We love pets, but we do require them to be kept inside or secured on a leash. This is to ensure performer safety and an optimal performance for the audience. Save the catbombing for zoom calls!
What will the timeline of the event look like?
Our shows run 70 minutes and the start time arranged is when the show will start. Actors and crew will arrive 30-60 minutes prior to that start time. We ask that someone be available to assist with finding the electrical outlet. A Freewill Staff or Board Member will introduce themselves to you as the main contact for the evening for you to direct all questions or concerns too. It will be a little crazy at the beginning but we guarantee an amazing event for you and your guests. Once the show is over, we will take down everything and leave within 30 to 60 minutes.
What if I have to reschedule? What about the weather?
We are booked solid, so rescheduling might be difficult but we will work with you to see what we can make work, and at no additional charge. If we are unable to find a time to reschedule your performance, we can offer a 50% refund or a tax receipt if you choose to donate the cost of the performance to The Free Will Players Theatre Guild.
In the case of rain or worse in the forecast, we'll check-in with you the day before the performance. If you decide to proceed and we are unable to do the performance due to unsafe weather conditions, we will not be able to issue a refund or reschedule the date.
How many guests can attend?
Using the Alberta Government guidance on group gatherings invite your community for a socially-distanced good time. All attendees are encouraged to wear a mask, keep six feet of distance from those outside their household cohort, and practice frequent hand sanitizing. Encouraging everyone to use AB Trace Together is a great additional step.
Don’t worry if the Government Guidance seems daunting! We can help you pick out the pieces that are important for your event.
Please contact the Managing Director about expected numbers 48 hours prior to your scheduled show so she can ensure enough staff and volunteers to support you and your guests.
What will be done to ensure the health and safety of everyone at the event?
Artist and audience safety are top of mind, as always. We’ve worked with Alberta Health Services to build a plan ensuring we’re as safe as possible. Our team takes our safety and yours seriously – we’re here for a stress-free great time, but will stop a performance if provided guidelines aren’t followed. We do ask that someone take responsibility for getting all guest’s or family’s contact information in the case of concern.
Can I tip the cast and crew?
While we very much appreciate the thought, we ask that you don’t tip the actors, crew or volunteers. We will have a variety of ways for you to donate onsite and ask that you do that, in order to best support the Festival and express your appreciation for the event. You will be able to donate electronically or with cash.
Can we eat, drink or smoke?
As with our Festival at Hawrelak Park, outdoor theatre always goes nicely with some snacks. For those events in private spaces the homeowner is welcome to offer alcoholic beverages to their guests. However, we do request, for the safety of our crew and actors, that the performance space be smoke and vape free for the duration of the show.