Watch a Live Theatrical Performance at One of These Open-Air Venues

When Broadway went dark at the onset of the pandemic last year, theaters and concert halls shut their doors and live performances were put on hold. Thankfully, New York City is now allowing arts and entertainment venues to reopen at limited capacities, and the same is true of other cities and their similar establishments across the country. As we've seen in years past, when the weather warms up, the arts move outdoors; seeing a play or musical under an open sky is one of the best ways to spend a summer day. The curtain rises again on live performances this summer at spacious, alfresco venues, which means you can take in a show while enjoying fresh air and scenic views. Ahead, more places proving that the show must go on.

New York, New York

In New York City, free Shakespeare in the Park returns to the Delacorte Theater (as shown above) with Merry Wives, a modern, set-in-Harlem spin on The Merry Wives of Windsor. Based on current guidelines, the venue would be allowed up to 500 attendees in its open-air space. Shows run from July 6 to September 18.

Abingdon, Virginia

A platform at the Moonlite Drive-In is the genius setting for Barter Theatre's July and August weekend shows, Doo-Wop at the Moonlite Drive-In and Barter Sings Broadway. Both will be simulcast on the big screen there, too.

Blue Ash, Ohio

Applaud the Cincinnati Operacasts of Carmen, Tosca, and The Barber of Seville from a designated square on Summit Park's Great Lawn during the company's open-air season running from July 11 to 31.

Sundance, Utah

The annual film festival and ski slopes are not the only attractions that make Sundance a worthwhile visit. During the summer season, you can take in a live show at the Sundance Summer Theatre. Standing amidst statuesque evergreens, the Eccles Stage Outdoor Amphitheater hosts a musical each season; this year, it's The Music Man.

Los Angeles, California

The Fountain Theatre troupe is putting on the L.A. premiere of An Octoroon, the award-winning satirical drama about race relations, on a stage that's been built in the parking lot from June 19 to September 19.