The Great River Shakespeare Festival has been selected by the City of Winona as the management organization for the Historic Masonic Temple Theatre in downtown Winona. As such, GRSF will manage the property on behalf of the city for the benefit of the community. Currently, the building is undergoing a heating and air-conditioning upgrade, and it is anticipated that it can begin to be occupied in early 2025. GRSF, along with its partners, Frozen River Film Festival and Rethos, will relocate their offices to this building and begin to program both their own activities as well as coordinate the activities of other arts organizations, individuals, and businesses who wish to use the various spaces.
Due to the preparation required for the 2025 GRSF season, the company will continue to perform its professional productions at Winona State University, however several GRSF activities may take place at the Masonic including rehearsals, costume building, youth classes/performances, guest company performances, and Callithump!
GRSF’s ultimate goal, as space is available, is to house as many arts organizations as possible under one roof. This will benefit each organization’s operations as well as make it easier for the public to find us. By collaborating together, GRSF plans to expand the artistic opportunities for area artists and audiences.