Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do I wear to the theatre?
Dress at all Stratford Festival theatres ranges from casual summer tourist clothes to cocktail party attire. You will never be under or overdressed. Theatres are highly air-conditioned, so a jacket or sweater might be advisable. Some of our participants like to dress up for perhaps one of the plays, and add an elegant dinner to their evening.

2. What is the weather like in Stratford?
In the summer, the weather in Stratford is much like that in northern Illinois. Daytime temperatures are usually comfortable (temperatures in the 70s or 80s), but occasionally can be very warm. Evenings can be chilly. Pack comfortable shoes and an umbrella.

3. How much money should I bring?
One lunch and one dinner are included with your trip registration, but otherwise you'll need to cover meal expenses for 5 days, and any souvenir shopping. Some participants picnic quite cheaply in Stratford (grocery stores and 7-11s within walking distance). There are many reasonable restaurants, pubs, and cafes offering meals under $10. There are also fine dining options where one may expect to spend perhaps $50 per person. Returning participants and trip leaders will gladly recommend their favorite eating spots.(Mark, please link to Stratford restaurants section).

4. Do I need Canadian money?
American money is accepted everywhere, but most participants convert to Canadian for a better exchange rate on our first morning in Stratford. Your ATM card will work and is perhaps the most convenient way to get cash. Travellers' checks, credit cards, etc., also widely accepted.

5. Is there a dining car on the train?
Regrettably, the days of elegant train dining have all but passed. There is a snack bar on our train, but you are also welcome to bring food for the day on board, coming and going.

6. Do I need a passport?
Not necessarily. United States and Canadian citizens crossing the US/Canadian border are required to have a passport, birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or naturalization certificate.

7. Is there a time change?
Yes, Stratford is in the Eastern time zone. We lose an hour going, gain an hour returning. Pace yourself throughout the trip. An afternoon break or nap will make an evening play much more enjoyable.

8. Is Stratford a safe town?
You can walk unaccompanied anywhere in Stratford at any hour (it is a theatre town!), and feel very, very safe. Participants often choose to walk together following a play or an after-theatre snack, but there are many pedestrians around regardless, and joggers in the morning. Our accommodations are on a well-lit and active street. Taxis also run 24-hours/day at a flat rate of $6 Canadian anywhere in town.

9. What if I have to cancel?
We hope you don't, but a full refund minus a $50 handling fee will be issued for any cancellations received before June 25. See Registration for further details. Plan ahead and book soon. This trip has a record of selling out.

10. What are your questions?
Please email any further questions or concerns you may have to kwright@niu.edu