American Players Theatre

Outdoor theater in the woods of Wisconsin

When friends and I ventured to Spring Green for the American Players Theatre's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, we were absolutely blown away. My Oberon, what visions have I seen! But I'll leave the gushing for another day. For now, here are some tips to make the most of your time at the American Players Theatre, should you go. And friends, you really should go! 




Logistics 
The American Players Theatre is located in Spring Green, about two hours from Milwaukee and one hour from both Madison and Wisconsin Dells. Evening shows begin at 8pm, but in my experience, it's best to arrive a couple hours early. That way you have time to get lost, battle summer road construction, and enjoy a leisurely picnic. 

Also, bring a map! Or make better notes of directions, without counting on GPS. Our group lost cell phone reception once at the theater and didn't get it back until, after the play, we had already driven almost 30 minutes in the wrong direction. 

Let's Eat
We googled and googled some more to try and find a cute place nearby for dinner in Spring Green. We failed. We couldn't even find something that took kitsch to a fun, funky level — just a bunch of restaurants with no atmosphere and a meh-sounding menu. Sure, you might find a place in Wisconsin Dells or Madison, but then you still have to drive an hour to get to the theater. That makes me nervous. 

So forget dining out. Instead, packing a picnic is the way to go at the American Players Theatre. I'd recommend arriving a couple hours before show time so you can snag your ideal picnic spot and really enjoy yourself. Prime woodsy picnic tables are located up the hill, as you walk toward the stage. 

However, in the less-wooded picnic area, there are grills available to use. A cool perk if you're into grilling! My friends and I opted for classic picnic fare: cheese, charcuterie, chicken salad, fruit, chocolates for dessert, and champagne. Heaven. 




What to Wear
Layer, layer, layer. I knew the American Players Theatre was outdoors, but I figured it was a covered pavilion. Newsflash: It's not! The main stage is amphitheater-style, completely uncovered. It's magical. The size is just right so there's not a bad seat in the house. 

But back to what to wear, make sure to sport proper footwear. There is a little bit of a walk uphill on a pebbled path, so leave the heels at home. We brought bug spray, but the theater also provides it as you enter the stage area. And once more: layers. It can get chilly, and I imagine the show goes on in light rain. Check the forecast and plan accordingly.

Make it a Day Trip
Our group attended a Friday evening show, but if we'd had more time, there are plenty of nearby stops that would make for a fun day trip. The most obvious is the House on the Rock, which is located next-door to the American Players Theatre. There's also the Wollersheim Winery & Distillery, located a little over 30 minutes from the theater. It would be lovely to do a wine tasting in the afternoon, then picnic and play at night. 

Another popular stop is Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin. You can tour the house and grounds by day, or join a twilight tour just before showtime (foregoing a picnic dinner). The house does offer some evenings with drinks and appetizers during the twilight tour, catered to theater-goers. While my friends and I thought this sounded divine, we couldn't justify the price tag. Still, I'd put on that my "someday" list of things to do for sure. 

For more info on the American Players Theatre, visit americanplayers.org.