Unforgettable Journeys: Explore the Shaw Festival in Scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario!

Calvin marks its 150th anniversary throughout the 2025–2026 academic year, and our travel initiative is participating in the celebration by visiting 10 nations across six continents. Join us as we honor Calvin’s international presence with an exhilarating array of tours.

Examine trip brochure

Highlights

The primary focus of this tour is attending theater performances at the Shaw Festival:

• Anything Goes
• Blues for an Alabama Sky
• Major Barbara
• Wait Until Dark

Participants will also partake in a backstage tour, a jazz and blues vocal session, a trip to Niagara Falls, a visit to a nearby winery, and leisure time to explore Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Tour Hosts

Debra Freeberg, emeritus professor of theatre, and Gary Schmidt, professor of English, have guided several Calvin tours to the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Ontario. They are eager to discover new theaters with you at the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake! Each day, they will facilitate a discussion about the performances viewed the previous day.

Pricing

• $2,145 USD per individual from Grand Rapids, based on double occupancy
• $470 USD additional fee for single-occupancy accommodations

This cost encompasses four nights at the charming Pillar and Post Hotel, all Shaw Festival performances, transportation, and four dinners. Travel insurance ($148 double room, $222 single room) is accessible through TravelEx.

More Information

For a comprehensive itinerary and essential details, download the tour brochure. 

Register online through Witte Travel. All participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis as submissions are received by Witte Travel. 

To request a printed version of the tour brochure or to inquire further, reach out to us at call@calvin.edu. 

Calvin tours are available to all friends of CALL and the Calvin Alumni Association who wish to join us. Discover other Calvin-sponsored excursions as well!