Shakespeare's Heartbeat is a program by the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival designed to engage students on the autism spectrum through the rhythmic structure of Shakespeare's language and the physicality of his characters. Operating within four San Francisco public middle schools, the program promotes social skills and communication through interactive activities that create a safe environment for personal expression. Education Program Manager Evan Held emphasizes the profound impact on students, while teachers report significant improvements in classroom dynamics and student engagement. The initiative is inspired by the Hunter Heartbeat Method, developed by Kelly Hunter, which combines Shakespeare with tailored communication techniques for diverse learning needs.
HAMNET (11/24/25-11/26/25)
Free Shakespeare in the Park (7/11/25-7/11/25)
Romeo and Juliet (4/26/25-4/26/25)
The Tempest (8/31/24-9/8/24)
Much Ado About Nothing (8/27/22-9/11/22)
Videos
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Paranormal Activity
American Conservatory Theater (2/19 - 3/15) | |
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Spring Awakening
Douglas Morrisson Theatre (1/9 - 1/18)
VIDEOS
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What the Constitution Means to Me
Hillbarn Theatre (1/22 - 2/8) | |
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Secret Improv Vice
Shelton Theater (1/11 - 1/11) | |
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Comedy Oakland at Quinn's Lighthouse Fri Jan 16 8:30pm
Quinn's Lighthouse (1/16 - 1/16) | |
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Comedy Oakland at Calabash Sat Jan 31st 8:00 pm
Calabash (1/31 - 1/31) | |
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Dear San Francisco
Club Fugazi (9/16 - 6/27) | |
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Hadestown (Non-Equity)
Saroyan Theatre (4/7 - 4/8) | |
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Comedy Oakland at Elbo Room Sat Jan 24th 8pm
Elbo Room Jack London (1/24 - 1/24) | |
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