theatre is sweeter outdoors.

Natives of St. Louis always rejoice when the weather behaves. As we all know, there’s a saying that goes something like: “Don’t like the weather? Wait 5 minutes.” So, when it’s sunny, breezy, and not too hot, everyone heads outdoors. Summertime hosts brilliant outdoor theatre, and I almost always take up this opportunity. Shakespeare in the Park and the Muny are two events held only during these warm months, and they cannot be missed.

Shakespeare in the Park occurs during the first few weeks of June in a glen near the zoo and the art museum. It is necessary to arrive a few hours before showtime at 8 pm, because the lawn definitely fills up. Ben and I love to bring a blanket to sit on, not only because there’s a “blankets only” section reserved near the front, but because of how fun and easy it is to enjoy a picnic during the show. There are vendors selling food before the show and during intermission, but it is generally overpriced. The best treats to bring are fruit and salty snacks, both of which can be easily stores as leftovers. This year’s show was Hamlet--they alternate dramas and comedies every year. Ben missed out on the production, but I thought it was outstanding. The set was perfect, the actors were talented, and Shakespeare would have been proud. [King Claudius’ speech was a little distracting, but no matter.] Shakespeare in the Park is really charming because it’s free, and all the people congregating there are people who love theatre. And there’s no better place to enjoy it.

The Muny [fully named the Municipal Opera of St. Louis] also hosts outdoor theatre, but at a cost. There are free seats located at the very back of the theatre, but the boxes up front generally go to season ticket holders. But the price definitely covers the quality of the show; the Muny has never disappointed an audience, even when stage mishaps occur. Since I was little, I’ve seen many shows there: Annie, West Side Story, Mame, South Pacific, 42nd Street, Les Miserables, The Pajama Game, Meet Me in St. Louis [of course], and many more. This year, I’m really looking forward to Footloose. Unlike Shakespeare in the Park, the Muny’s season extends into August, providing many opportunities to see a show. One recommendation that should always be heeded is bringing a towel. Seat cushions are available, but the backs of your legs will still stick to them! A personal fan is also a nice thing to have, but the Muny has huge ones that do a great job. The Muny also has concession stands that are reasonably priced, featuring favorite snacks like popcorn and pretzels. A fun tradition that the Muny has kept up is singing Auld Lang Syne after the last performance of a show. The entire audience joins in with the cast, and it’s a happy celebration of one show’s end. Another admirable thing about the Muny is that kids and teens often perform as well, as a part of Muny Kids. You’d have to be a triple-threat [singer, dancer, and actor], but their talent is incredible.

Even when summer nights stay hot and humid, the best place to be is still outside. With wonderful opportunities to see wonderful shows, it isn’t surprising that crowds are always beckoned to Forest Park.

Stay cool, St. Louis.