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A bronze statue of George Bernard Shaw overlooks a busy outdoor restaurant patio at the Shaw Festival in Ontario.
Ontario

The Shaw Festival: Extraordinary Theater and Nature in Niagara

Program No. 10396RJ
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Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
5 days
4 nights
What's Included
10 meals ( 4B, 3L, 3D )
5 expert-led lectures
4 expert-led field trips
3 performances
An experienced Group Leader
4 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After checking in and receiving your room assignment, please stop by the Road Scholar table in the lobby to meet your group leader. You’ll receive your welcome packet, important program information, and details about the time and location of the orientation session. If you arrive later in the day, please request your packet at check-in.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
The Group Leader will welcome everyone, lead introductions, and review the program schedule, logistics, safety guidelines, and emergency procedures. “Free time” and “At leisure” periods let you explore or relax, with suggestions available from the Group Leader. Activities, schedules, and times may change due to local conditions; updates will be shared promptly. Enjoy the nightly illumination of the Falls from 8:30 p.m. to midnight. Times may vary slightly, so please check locally for the most up-to-date schedule.
Activity Note
Walking a few blocks, boarding, and disembarking the motorcoach, and navigating stairs at the theatres.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
By motorcoach we will transfer to Niagara-on-the-Lake for an introduction to the Shaw Festival and its history with a festival insider. We'll then take a peek behind the curtain to reveal the secrets that bring Shaw's work to the stage.
Lunch:
At the Shaw Festival.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, we will see Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense, a hilarious tale of the bumbling Wooster and his clever valet, Jeeves. You’ll also have the chance to join a pre- or post-show discussion to enhance your experience of the performance. Afterwards, enjoy a self-guided visit to the Butterfly Conservatory, home to over 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies, and the adjacent Botanical Gardens, featuring beautifully landscaped grounds, exotic plants, and serene pathways.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Spend the evening at your own pace, whether unwinding or exploring.
Activity Note
Walking a few blocks, boarding, and disembarking the motorcoach, and navigating stairs at the theatres.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, as we travel to Niagara-on-the-Lake, we’ll be joined by a local expert who will share insights into the cultural and Indigenous history of the Niagara region. Upon arrival, we’ll take part in an educational session led by a festival insider.
Lunch:
At the Shaw Festival.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, we will see the musical Funny Girl, following the rise of Fanny Brice, a bold and unforgettable performer. You’ll also have the chance to join a pre- or post-show discussion to enhance your experience of the performance. For the remainder of the afternoon, you may return to Niagara Falls to enjoy free time or choose to remain in Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore before returning to Niagara Falls after dinner.
Dinner:
On your own; your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
Enjoy the evening at your leisure, whether relaxing or discovering the surroundings.
Activity Note
Walking a few blocks, boarding, and disembarking the motorcoach, and navigating stairs at the theatres.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, we will transfer by coach to the Shaw Festival’s Props and Wardrobe Warehouse, where the magic of the Festival begins, as costumes, accessories, and props are curated and primed for the stage. This immersive look at the creative heart of the Festival offers insight into the craftsmanship and logistics that bring each show to life.
Lunch:
At the Shaw Festival.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, we will see Amadeus, the gripping drama exploring the rivalry between Mozart and Salieri. We’ll then participate in a post-show discussion and a special farewell as we celebrate the conclusion of our week of performances.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share your favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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