A Must-See Exhibit at the McNay This Spring
If you’re a fan of art, theater, or the timeless stories of William Shakespeare, you won’t want to miss the McNay Art Museum’s newest exhibition. Designing Shakespeare through the Ages opens March 27 and runs through July 6, 2025, in the Brown Gallery and Tobin Wing. This special exhibition explores how Shakespeare’s classic plays have inspired artists and designers across centuries—and how his influence still shows up in pop culture today.
Shakespeare Brought to Life on Stage
For over 400 years, Shakespeare’s plays have been performed around the world. His stories of love, fate, power, and identity still connect with audiences of all ages. But have you ever wondered what goes into bringing those stories to life on stage?
Designing Shakespeare through the Ages highlights just that. The exhibition features original stage and costume designs for famous plays like Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and The Tempest. These artworks show how theater artists across generations have interpreted Shakespeare’s works, each adding their own vision to the storytelling.
You’ll see detailed costume drawings, bold set designs, and imaginative illustrations from both historical and modern productions. Some are dramatic, some are whimsical, and all of them offer a fresh way to experience Shakespeare.
A Peek into the Collection
The exhibit pulls from the McNay’s renowned Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts, one of the most significant collections of its kind in the country. Visitors can expect to see pieces by legendary designers like Eugene Berman, Arch Lauterer, Edward Gordon Craig, and Holmes Easley.
One standout piece is Berman’s delicate design for Desdemona in Otello, painted in watercolor and ink. Another is Lauterer’s vibrant 1938 scene for Romeo and Juliet, capturing the emotion and movement of the performance. These works aren’t just pretty to look at—they give you a glimpse into the artistic process behind theater production.
Special Events and Programs
To celebrate the exhibit, the McNay is also offering several exciting events in partnership with the San Pedro Playhouse. These programs are perfect for theater lovers, students, or anyone curious about costume design or acting.
Featured Programs:
• 🎭 Shakespeare Costume Workshop
Saturday, June 14 | 11 AM – 1 PM
Learn the basics of theatrical costume design and sketch your own Shakespeare-inspired look.
• 🎭 Shakespeare Acting Workshop
Saturday, June 28 | 11 AM – 1 PM
Try your hand at performing Shakespeare’s words in a fun and supportive setting.
• 🎬 Film Screening: Hamlet (1996)
Saturday, April 12 | 12 PM
• 🎤 Lecture: Shakespeare from Stage to Screen with Tim Hedgpeth
Thursday, May 1 | 6 PM
• 🎬 Film Screening: Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)
Saturday, May 24 | 2 PM
• 🎬 Film Screening: West Side Story (1961)
Saturday, July 5 | 2 PM
All programs are hosted at the McNay. Some may require an RSVP, so be sure to check the McNay’s events calendar for the latest updates.
Plan Your Visit
The McNay Art Museum is located just north of downtown San Antonio and is known for its beautiful grounds, modern and classical art, and welcoming atmosphere. Designing Shakespeare through the Ages is included with general admission, and museum members get in free.
Make a day of it—explore the exhibit, stroll through the sculpture garden, and enjoy everything this historic museum has to offer.
Dates: March 27 – July 6, 2025
Location: Brown Gallery & Tobin Wing, McNay Art Museum
Admission: Included with general admission
More Info: mcnayart.org
This spring, let Shakespeare’s world of drama, love, and fate pull you into a creative journey through time. Designing Shakespeare through the Ages isn’t just for art lovers or theater fans—it’s for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling.
Mark your calendars, plan your visit, and experience Shakespeare in a way you’ve never seen before.