The Little Shop of Horrors and More at Spectacular Sand Harbor

By Shanie Matthews | Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Picture this: a breathtaking Lake Tahoe sunset, the company of your special someone and the enchanting allure of a live theatrical performance. At the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at Sand Harbor, this captivating experience comes to life on the shores of Big Blue, creating unforgettable memories every summer.

There's truly nothing quite like the sensation of sinking your toes into the warm sand while savoring a glass of wine, all while world-class theater unfolds on arguably the most scenic stage in the world. This magical fusion of nature and art takes place when the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival brings the brilliance of theater to life at Sand Harbor in July and August. This festival is an absolute must for your summer plans and has been since its humble beginnings back in 1972 at Sugar Pine Point State Park.

Photo: The Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is held at Sand Harbor on one of the most scenic stages in the world.

Looking for a great date night? The Tahoe Shakespeare Festival has you covered. Photo courtesy of Saira Haas

Little Shop of Horrors

While a Shakespeare production is not on the calendar this summer, this year's festival proudly presents Little Shop of Horrors, a tale that intertwines fame, fortune and love with a peculiar and unique plant. Follow the journey of a hapless flower shop assistant whose life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters this sentient and mysterious seedling. A campy and cheerful romp, this beloved sci-fi smash musical has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide for more than three decades. Behind its charm are the legendary duo Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, known for their work on Disney classics like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Prepare to be enchanted by popular songs such as "Suddenly, Seymour," "Skid Row" and "Somewhere That's Green."

Little Shop of Horrors

Through August 20

Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park

984 Incline Way, Incline Village, NV

(775) 832-1616; laketahoeshakespeare.com

Tuesday through Sunday 7:30 p.m.

Prices range from $17 to $220 depending on seat location and day of visit

Where else can you enjoy exceptional theater and the delight of a full moon? Photo courtesy of Jess Zeigler

Showcase Series

The Showcase Series is held on Monday nights and other select evenings at 7:30 p.m. with a variety of entertainment. Tickets are going fast, so purchase them soon if you're interested.

July 31: Reno Jazz Orchestra Hot House: One Night at the Savoy Ballroom

August 7: Reno Philharmonic Ochestra A Tribute to Rodgers and Hammerstein

August 14: PettyBreakers A Tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

August 15: The Linda Ronstadt Experience

August 21: Reno Jazz Orchestra featuring Tom Scott

A Delectable Culinary Journey at Shakespeare's Kitchen

Enhance your night out by indulging in al fresco dining from Shakespeare's Kitchen. Treat yourself to a pre-show picnic with delightful fare like appetizers, tacos, salads, deli sandwiches and drinks at the dining area or your seats. Shakespeare's Kitchen is open from 5:30 to 7:20 p.m. For those with a sweet tooth, don't worry; the stand reopens during intermission for delectable desserts. While the festival welcomes patrons to bring their own food, it's essential to use small coolers and backpacks that fit comfortably under your seat. Plus, remember to opt for non-breakable containers to ensure the beaches remain safe for everyone to enjoy!

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of classic theater, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Tahoe's Sand Harbor. The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival promises an unforgettable summer filled with romance, drama and delightful memories. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be whisked away on an evening of enchantment and wonder! 

To learn about other great activities happening around Lake Tahoe, check out our Daytime and Nightlife pages.

About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
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