Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival’s New Sustainable Home

Historic Move for HVSF

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival (HVSF) has received final approval for its new site plan, marking a significant milestone. Designed by Studio Gang, the new campus in Garrison, NY, will feature the United States' first purpose-built LEED Platinum theater. This new venue emphasizes sustainability, with the 98-acre campus gifted by philanthropist Chris Davis focusing on green space and rewilding.

A New Era in Theater

HVSF’s new 13,850-square-foot venue in Garrison will enhance its renowned open-air productions. Known for staging classics and new works against the Hudson River backdrop, HVSF plans to start construction this fall, aiming for a 2026 summer opening. The design emphasizes sustainability and community integration, with extensive review ensuring stakeholder concerns were addressed.

Sustainability at Its Core

The new theater, designed by Studio Gang, is a cultural anchor for the Hudson Valley. It offers versatility for actors, audiences, and operations, extending the performance season into the fall. The architecture blends with the landscape, using timber-framed structures that harmonize with the Hudson Highlands. The stage frames views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains, creating a unique experience.

Community and Environmental Benefits

The theater includes outdoor gathering spaces and overlooks for pre- and post-performance activities, fostering community interaction. The landscape, designed by Nelson Byrd Woltz, replaces an old golf course with native grasses and wetlands, promoting biodiversity and reducing resource use. This aligns with HVSF’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

Major Financial Support

HVSF recently received a $10 million grant from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) for its 2023 Capital Improvement Grants. This funding supports the theater's construction and ecological restoration. The grant highlights HVSF’s role in expanding diverse programming, enhancing accessibility, and growing New York's arts organizations.

Looking Ahead

The new HVSF campus promises to elevate the theatrical experience with improved facilities and accessibility. As construction begins, HVSF remains committed to merging art and nature, preserving the Hudson Valley's beauty, and providing a world-class destination for theater enthusiasts.