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THE ALABAMA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
The Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) is the fifth largest Shakespeare festival in the world and attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually from all 50 states and more than 60 countries. The $21.5 million Carolyn Blount Theatre, built in 1983, houses two stages -- the 750 seat Festival Stage and the 225 seat Octagon -- production shops, rehearsal halls, and administrative workspaces. More than one million bricks were used in building the 100,000 square foot structure. Schoolfest, ASF's widely acclaimed student matinee program, entertains and educates more than 50,000 school children from across the Southeast each season. In conjunction with the University of Alabama, the complex also houses the Master of Fine Arts programs in acting, stage management, and theatre administration. Season subscription packages and group discounts are available. The ASF gift shop, which contains unique gifts and souvenirs, music, art and books related to Shakespeare, and the Swan Cafe are generally open before and during performance intermissions. Leisurely picnics can be taken outdoors on the terrace, lakeside, or in the adjacent gardens.