In 1978 the Illinois Shakespeare Festival was established. The Festival is held each summer on the grounds of Ewing Manor by the Illinois State University Foundation, ISU, College of Fine Arts, and the Department of Theatre.

Playgoers are encouraged to bring picnics to enjoy on the lawn before the performances. Over the years the Manor grounds have expanded to include a Japanese garden, the new Shakespearean theater in 2000, and a recent renovation added brick walk ways meandering through elaborate flower gardens.

This collection contains miscellaneous programs, fliers, advertisements, and theater ticket stubs.