“Be great in act, as you have been in thought.”
— William Shakespeare, King John, Act V, Scene I (Philip the Bastard)
At Freewill, supporting Shakespeare sometimes calls for a little creative thinking and occasionally a squirrel. Discover the fundraising ideas, events, and adventures that help bring our festival to life.
Beyond the Stage
Bringing Shakespeare to life under the open sky takes more than talented performers and a beautiful stage. Behind every production is a dedicated team of artists, technicians, staff, and volunteers, along with the many resources needed to make the Freewill Shakespeare Festival possible.
While ticket sales, grants, and donations provide essential support, our special fundraising initiatives offer creative ways to bring our community into the story. From returning favourites to entirely new ideas, these activities help raise funds for the festival while giving our supporters opportunities to participate, connect, and have a little fun along the way.
Every initiative, big or small, helps sustain the work that happens behind the curtain and keeps the magic of Freewill alive for Edmonton audiences.
Our Fundraising Initiatives
We've never been afraid to get a little creative when it comes to fundraising! Over the years, Freewill has explored a variety of ways to bring our community together, celebrate the arts, and raise funds for the festival.
Here are a few of our adventures beyond the stage.
A Night at the Movies — Freewill Presents at Metro Cinema
Who says Shakespeare belongs only onstage? Our fundraising screenings at Edmonton's Metro Cinema have brought audiences together for an evening of film, storytelling, and community.
These special events give us a chance to connect with supporters outside the festival season while celebrating the stories and performances we love.
Making Our Mark — Freewill Tattoo Fundraiser
For some supporters, their love of the arts is more than skin deep!
In partnership with local tattoo artists at Black Market, Freewill has brought a little extra creativity to fundraising through flash tattoo events. It's an unconventional way to support live theatre, and certainly one that leaves a lasting impression.
Going Nuts for Shakespeare — Adopt a Squirrel
It wouldn't be Freewill without a little mischief!
Inspired by the furry residents of our outdoor festival home, Adopt a Squirrel puts a playful spin on charitable giving. This delightfully unusual initiative invites supporters to embrace a little Shakespearean silliness while helping sustain the festival.
Because sometimes supporting the arts means going a little nuts.
What's On Now
Foster Freewill
“For here, I hope, begins our lasting joy.”
— William Shakespere, Henry VI, Part 3, Act V, Scene VII (King Henry VI)
Since 1989, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival has brought professional theatre to Edmonton audiences through the dedication of local artists, volunteers, and a community of passionate supporters.
Our return to Hawrelak Park in 2026 marked an important new chapter after several challenging years. Now, we're looking ahead and working to strengthen the financial foundation that will sustain Freewill for seasons to come.
Through our Foster Freewill campaign, we're working toward a $50,000 fundraising goal to support local theatre artists and help secure the festival's future.
Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Eligible donations receive a charitable tax receipt.
Help us foster the next chapter of Freewill. Donate today!
The Lawyers Take the Stage!
Players de Novo presents
The Comedy of Errors
What happens when Edmonton's lawyers and judges trade the courtroom for the stage? A little Shakespearean chaos, of course!
We're delighted to be the 2027 charitable theatre partner for Players de Novo's annual Lawyers' Play. This unique fundraising tradition brings together members of Edmonton's legal community to perform in support of local theatre and arts education.
Directed by Freewill's Artistic Director, David Horak, this year's production of Shakespeare's The Comedy of Errors promises mistaken identities, mischievous mix-ups, and plenty of laughs!
Friday, May 7, 2027
Eva O. Howard Theatre,
Victoria School of the Arts
Ticket information coming soon!
Meet Players de Novo
2nd Annual Adopt a Squirrel Fundraiser
Opens - January 1, 2027
Closes - May 15, 2027
Adopt a Squirrel! 🐿️
Our most unpredictable performers don't rehearse, don't take direction, and have absolutely no respect for the fourth wall.
We're talking, of course, about the mischievous squirrels of William Hawrelak Park!
For a $250 donation, you can symbolically adopt one of these furry scene-stealers and help support the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. We'll recognize your generosity on festival signage, and you can proudly claim credit whenever a squirrel makes an unscheduled entrance.
Every adoption supports the artists and productions that bring Freewill to life. Charitable tax receipts are issued automatically through Zeffy.
Please note: Our squirrels are wild animals and cannot be held, hugged, or taken home. They also cannot be expected to remember their lines.