FAQs

Can I buy tickets at the venue on the day of a performance?

Due to the limited capacity of the venue, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance. By purchasing your tickets online, you will receive a confirmation email with your eTickets which you can present to the ticket scanner. Please print your eTicket or save it to your phone before you arrive at the show, as cell phone service in Sanborn Park is poor.

Are dogs allowed?

Well-socialized dogs on a leash are welcome, but we ask owners to choose seats on the left side of the audience, closest to the creek. This lets people with allergies or fear of dogs keep a suitable distance. Exceptions can be made for qualified service dogs.

Where and how do I park?

Sanborn Park charges a parking fee of $6 per vehicle. There is limited lighting in the parking lots after performances, so you might consider bringing a small flashlight.

What time does the show start?

All performances at Sanborn Park begin at 7 PM.

What time will the performance end?

Sanborn Park has a curfew requiring everyone to leave the premises by 10 PM. Therefore, all performances end at or before 9:30 PM, for a total runtime of no more than 2.5 hours, including intermission.

Is the show appropriate for children?

We pride ourselves on providing entertainment for the entire family. The Importance of Being Earnest is rated E for everyone in the family!

Is seating reserved?

Seating in Sanborn Park is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The venue opens for seating at approx. 6:30 PM. But members of our Donors Circle and subscribers get earlier access. At that time, you can claim your seats with a blanket and then continue to enjoy a picnic in the park.

All general seating consists of mesh patio sling chairs.

Are children welcome?

Children must be supervised at all times. It is required that at least one adult be present for every six children in attendance and all youth 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Please also note that Sanborn Park closes for entry at sunset and you cannot drive into the park later to pick up your child after the show. Cellular phone service in the park is very limited, so your child will not be able to reach you if they wish to leave early. Silicon Valley Shakespeare is not responsible for any child left unattended.

Can we bring a picnic?

Of course! There are several areas in the park to enjoy a picnic. If you come early to picnic, we recommend you have someone get in line 30-45 minutes before the performance to reserve seats, then return to finish your picnic. Peterson Grove, though conveniently located, is only available to our patrons if there is no wedding or other event present. Other picnic tables are available, just up the hill. When you walk out of the parking lot, turn left.

Will there be food and beverages available for purchase?

We have a well-stocked concessions stand where you can purchase wine, water, snacks, cookies, candy, and cold and hot beverages, perfect for complementing a picnic you might bring to enjoy before the performance.

Is there a dress code?

Not at all! The performance is outdoors in a park where the terrain is primarily dirt and gravel. We recommend wearing shoes that let you walk safely to and from the theatre; high heels are not a good choice. The weather can change quickly, so we recommend that you bring something warm to wear later in the evening. If you bring/wear a hat, we request that it be one that won’t obstruct someone else’s view.

Can I sit in those cool thrones in the back of the theatre?

Royal Seating is an exclusive SVS experience! Extra-comfortable seats, a private seating area, a designated usher preshow and at intermission. This is the lap of luxury for your evening’s entertainment! Available as a benefit to select members of our Donors Circle, though some are available for purchase at some performances. You can become a member of our Donors Circle by clicking here, or ask about upgrading your ticket purchase at the Box Office if you see those seats are empty.