Debauchery and pop culture collide with Shakespeare’s iconic tales to create a hilarious twist you’ll both love. Prepare for an unforgettable show that’ll have you in stitches.
The Background
Drunk Shakespeare is a multi-city extravaganza that reinvents the classics. Watch an actor take five shots in a row and then perform one of William’s greatest hits with the rest of the cast. The show weaves improv, debauchery, and modern references to deliver a hilarious evening. Reviews on Fever give the event 4.8 out of 5 stars. One entry said “this was probably the best experience I’ve ever had.” I agree. Of all the DC events on your list, this belongs near the top.
The Standout Features
This date is earns a standing ovation for several reasons:
- Laugh Out Loud – The pop culture references alone will have you in stitches. The positive environment can fuel romance.
-
Intimate Setting – The small space not only gets you right near the action, but creates a personal atmosphere that brings you closer to your date.
-
Witness the Talent – The exceptional cast delivers a stellar performance. A fun night helps foster a connection.
-
Get Involved – Being engaged in the show together makes it even more enjoyable. The shared activities help strengthen your bond, whether it’s brand new or time-tested.
- Understand their Comedic Taste – Gauge how your plus one reacts to the jokes. If you share a similar sense of humor, that’s a good sign.
The Experience
Prologue
My friends couldn’t say enough good things about Drunk Shakespeare. With their ringing endorsement in mind, I walk into Sage Theater. My date and I are here when the doors open 30 minutes before showtime. After all, we want to snag a great spot. When it’s time, I pass through heavy, red velvet curtains to the stage. As I enter the room, I can’t help but look up. Books on every subject and style wrap around the ceiling in a magnificent rainbow display.
A cheery woman’s voice brings my focus back. “Here’s your complimentary shot,” she says, bright-eyed as she hands us light pink concoctions. We take our mystery drinks and grab two front row seats. Once seated, we cheers to a fun night ahead and down the fruity shots. Then, I notice a QR code taped to the seat. My date uses the code to get a drink which comes right away. Apparently, we can order throughout the performance.
Main Act
The lights dim. Soon after, a band of actors flood the stage and start with – what else – a bidding war! The prize? Two lucky winners play a special role in the show and receive some gifts to boot. The betting is fierce – $20, then $60, then $100. So it goes until they proclaim a victor at $220! Though I didn’t win the bet, perhaps you’ll throw your hat in the ring. The competition adds another layer of fun to the date.
Now, we get to the heart of the evening – the drinking. One brave performer puts away shot after shot of rail-grade tequila like a champ. We both admire and wince at their resolve. I’m glad I’m not up there. After completing this ritual, the acting begins.
What comes next is an incredible fusion of Shakespeare’s original work, absolute debauchery, and nods to pop culture that has us in stitches. Keep your eyes and ears open for the many smart references sprinkled throughout the night. One minute, I’m seeing a Titanic reenactment. Then, I hear the President’s speech from Independence Day.
We don’t merely watch. In fact, we’re all part of the performance. From starting a drum roll to fist bumping the actors, the jovial environment is infectious. If you don’t like attention, don’t worry. Most activities are for the entire group or those who volunteer. If called upon, you can always pass – no problem. If a stray dildo and tongue-in-cheek comments don’t bother you, you’ll be fine with the show’s irreverent moments as well.
Curtain
As the magic of this hilarious scene unfolds before me, I lose track of time. Before I know it, the show is winding down. Time flies when you’re having fun. As the actors take their bows to uproarious applause, I look at the huge smile spread across my date’s face.
When we get outside, I ask him how this date compares to all the other dates we’ve had. “Oh, it’s far and away the best, 100%. I’d love to do that again,” he raves. If that statement doesn’t convince you to go, I don’t know what would. I can’t wait to return for a new show.
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ First date (if they're open to some off-colored humor) ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Mon - Thur: 7pm Fri: 7pm and 9pm Sat: 3pm, 5pm, 7pm, 9pm Sun: 5pm |
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Cost | Regular Prices: Balcony: $49, Mezzanine: $69, Stage Side: $89 Groupon Price: Balcony: $29, Mezzanine: $49, Stage Side: $59 This is an intimate venue so you'll be close with any seat. I recommend the balcony seats if you can get them. Tickets sell fast so book early! |
| Website | |
| Address | Sage Theater 1100 13th St NW, off L St. |
| Transportation | Street parking is limited. Recommend metro or Uber. The closest metro stations are McPherson Square (7 min walk) and Metro Center (14 min walk). |
| Add-ons | At the start of the show, bid the highest to win a special package. The package includes the chance to play a more active role in the show, some unique foods and drinks, and some other surprises. |
| Cancellation Policy | No refunds, transfers or exchanges. |
| Special Considerations | Must be 21 years old or over |
| Try This Date in Other Cities | New York, Chicago, Phoenix, Houston |
The Post-Date Options
Are you two vibing? Instead of ending the date, let’s keep it going! If you need it, here’s a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can choose any option near the theater. Your date will never know you planned it all along. The map shows the venue (purple) and post-date options (green) in one place, just for you. Before you go, though, always double check opening times in case something’s changed.
Lincoln (6 min walk): From colorful portraits to pennies set into the floors, this restaurant shows major love for our 16th president. Come for The Rickey, DC’s official cocktail hailing from the 1920s. Stay for the food. Closed Mondays. Open Tues-Thurs: 11:30am – 9pm, Fri: 11:30am – 9:30pm, Sat: 11am – 9:30pm, Sun: 10am – 4pm. Bar open 1 hour after closing.
Georgia Brown’s (9 min walk): This DC classic has been cooking up fine Georgia-inspired Southern food for years. The history behind each ingredient is almost as rich as the dishes. Mon: 4pm to last seating at 8:30pm, Tues-Thurs: 4pm to last seating at 9pm, Fri: 4-10pm, Sat: 11:30am – 10pm, Sun: 10am to last seating at 3:30pm. Treat yourself to their live jazz on Wednesday nights from 7-10pm.
Old Ebbitt Grill (13 min walk): As Washington’s first known saloon, this restaurant is steeped in history. Since 1856, prominent statesmen, military officials, and other dignitaries have graced this iconic establishment. Follow in their footsteps for a great dining experience. Open Mon-Fri: 8am – 2am, Sat-Sun: 9am – 2am. Kitchen closes all days at 1am.
Cafe du Parc (15 min walk): This stunning cafe will transport you to the streets of Paris. Their gorgeous terrace is one of the top open air dining experiences in the city. If you want to impress your date, this is a winner. It’s no surprise it’s recommended in Forbes Travel. Open Mon-Fri: 6:30 – 10:30am, 11:30am – 4:30pm, 5-10pm; Sat & Sun: 6:30 – 11am, 12 – 4:30pm, 5:30 – 10pm.
I did this! This review is spot on and the play was hilarious yet very well performed (for those artsy types). The show sets a great vibe for a date, reveals a lot about your date’s sense of humor if they’re new, and gives you plenty to talk about afterwards. Definitely recommend it for those not embarrassed by a little crudeness.