The White Snake

About Sanborn Park

What time are the performances?

All performances of Shakespeare in Sanborn Park begin at 7pm.

How long is the performance?

Sanborn Park has a curfew requiring all participants (audience, performers, and staff) to leave the park by 10 pm. Therefore, all performances end at or before 9:30 pm.

How much are tickets?

Tickets for Shakespeare in Sanborn Park are $25, with discounts available for students, seniors, and SVS members. Youth 17 years of age and under attend for FREE, with a paid adult admission. Children still need a reserved ticket, to guarantee seat availability.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets for all productions are available here. Due to the limited capacity of the space, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance. All ticket holders need to check in at the Box Office upon arrival. Online Ticket holders are asked to present their online confirmations to receive physical tickets. People purchasing tickets at the park can pay with cash, Visa or Mastercard (cellular data access permitting), or a check made out to Silicon Valley Shakespeare.

What about parking?

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

Is the seating reserved?

Seating in Sanborn Park is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The house opens for seating at approximately 6:30pm, though those of you in our Donors Circle 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 seating consists of gray folding chairs with padded seats and backs.

Will there be food available at the show?

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

Can I drop my child off at the park and pick him or her up after the show?

Children must be supervised at all times. SVS asks that at least one adult be present for every six children in attendance. If you choose to drop a teenager off, note that Sanborn Park closes for entry at sunset and you cannot drive into the park later to retrieve your child. 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.

Is Shakespeare in the Park a dress-up affair?

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 put on later in the evening. If you bring/wear a hat we request that it be one that won’t obstruct someone else’s view.

What about dogs?

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 to keep a suitable distance. Exceptions can be made for qualified service dogs.

Are the plays appropriate for children?

We pride ourselves on providing entertainment for the entire family. Due to graphic content inherent in many of Shakespeare’s works, we recommend parents familiarize themselves with the plays and determine if they are appropriate for your particular child. To assist parents we have provided a rating system (see the Family Rating Page).

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 available to our patrons only 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.

What are those cool thrones in the back of the theatre? How can I sit there?

Royal Seating is an exclusive SVS experience! Extra-comfortable seats, a private seating area, a designated usher pre-show and at intermission – this is the lap of luxury for your evening’s entertainment.

Available primarily to members of our Royal Court, though some are available for purchase at some performances. You can become a member of our Royal Court, or ask about upgrading at the Box Office if you see those seats are empty.

Will you be passing the hat at Sanborn Park?

SVS does not pass the hat at ticketed performances. However, if you wish to make a donation to continue to support Shakespeare in the Park, and to help us keep it free for kids, there is a donation box in the concession area. Checks can be made out to Silicon Valley Shakespeare.

The White Snake — Rated PG for Parental Guidance