Best Outdoor Theater Performances In OC
Enjoy a live performance under the stars at these outdoor theater events. These family-friendly plays will add some art and culture to your summer calendar without putting a hole in your pocket; some of the events are even free.
Shakespeare Orange County
Festival Amphitheater
12762 Main St.
Garden Grove, CA 92840
(714) 744-7016
www.shakespeareoc.org
Be sure to take advantage of Shakespeare Orange County this season. For more than 20 years, the organization has provided the OC with quality Shakespearean productions. The theater group will be offering "Twelfth Night Or What You Will" and "The Tragedy of Macbeth." Take a journey with the talented cast and be entertained by romance, comedy or one of Shakespeare's most revered classic tragedies that explores murder and deceit. "Twelfth Night Or What You Will" will satisfy your romantic heart while also making your laugh, and "The Tragedy of Macbeth" will keep you on the edge of your seat with suspense. Take a look at some of Shakespeare Orange County's past performances here. In addition to seeing the Shakespeare Orange County crew live on stage, you can support the group by donating towards the productions. Learn how you can help here.
Shakespeare By The Sea
777 Centre St.
San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 217-7596
www.shakespearebythesea.org
If you are watching your pennies but still want to take the family out for a night of fun, Shakespeare By The Sea may be the solution. This non-profit organization enables many to be exposed to several of Shakespeare's most notable plays for no cost. The family will be entertained while also being exposed to art and culture. This season, the cast will be showcasing "All's Well That Ends Well" and "King John." Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and get cozy while being captivated by some of Shakespeare's most esteemed works. There are even dinner options if you would like eat at the venue. Learn more about food and drink choices offered here. To show your love and appreciation for the theater group's free productions, you may be interested in volunteering. You can help advertise the event, assist with implementing the productions and reach out for additional interest in the community. Who knows, Shakespeare By The Sea may even entice you to showcase your passion for Shakespeare on stage. For audition information, click here. Your theater debut could be sooner than you think.
Related: Best OC-Based Playwrights
Pearson Park Amphitheatre
401 N. Lemon St.
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 765-5274
www.anaheim.net
Pearson Park Amphitheatre is sure to serve as a fun outing this summer. The venue hosts a variety of international musical concerts, dance shows and even free movies. You can immerse yourself in classical or more contemporary shows and may even be enlightened and inspired by a new genre of performing arts. With admission being free or only $3, Pearson Park Amphitheatre provides entertainment without breaking the bank.
Shakespeare In The Park
Lantern Bay Park
25111 Park Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629
Aug. 29, 30 and 31 at 6 p.m.
www.dptheaterco.com
Take advantage of Orange County's beautiful climate at Shakespeare in the Park this summer. Supported by the city of Dana Point, the shows are free and do not require tickets, so you can gather several of your friends for the event right before the show. The 90-minute showcase of some of Shakespeare's most notable plays will infuse your summer with quality performance art and can even serve as a romantic evening for two. You can impress your date with the ambiance of the outdoor theater and intellectual story lines without emptying your wallet. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and your favorite snacks and you will be set. Stay tuned on what plays will be featured here.
Related: OC's Best Local Theater Directors
The Redlands Bowl
25 Grant St.
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 793-7316
www.redlandsbowl.org
To attend a variety of exquisite performing arts shows, one might assume tickets would be expensive; however, the Redlands Bowl has enabled spectators to experience delightful showcases since 1923 -- for free! This special venue presents classical music, bluegrass, ballet and big band music, just to name a few. Be sure to put on your dancing shoes and join in the fun at The Redlands Bowl's impressive lineup this year.
Stacy Brecht is a professional writer, dancer, marketer and model in the Los Angeles area. Brecht also enjoys traveling, wine, fitness training, volunteering, movies and trying new restaurants. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
