Vista’s Moonlight Amphitheatre is the perfect setting for your outing with the kiddos or family date night. There’s no better way to appreciate summer than by spending warm evenings outdoors at the theater with your little thespian-in-training. Experience a truly unique evening where the open sky and theater come together under the stars. This summer catch Shrek, The Musical ­with everybody’s favorite ogre!

Photo credit: Moonlight Stage Productions

What's Playing This Summer

In its 35^th anniversary season, Moonlight Amphitheatre presents an exceptional line-up: All Shook Up (June 10 – 27, 8 p.m.), The Music Man (July 15 – August 1, 8 p.m.), and our favorite of the lot, Shrek, The Musical (August 12 – 29, 8 p.m.). Grab your mini entertainer, and enjoy a Broadway quality performance, complete with full orchestra, at a fraction of the price and with the ambiance of the moonlight shining down.

Photo credit: Moonlight Amphitheatre Facebook page

Before the Show 

Your little drama queen and king will love picnicking on the lawn or at picnic tables with family and friends before the show. So pack a dinner and grab your lawn chairs! Gates open 1.5 hours before show time, which is plenty of time to socialize and watch the sunset. If you’re feeling really social, pack a few extra goodies to share with new friends on the lawn.

If you don’t feel like packing dinner ahead of time, there are lots of food options available at the concession stands before the show and during intermission. If you want a fancy and delicious treat, make a reservation at the Artisan Café, the Amphitheatre’s onsite restaurant (reservations are required 48 hours in advance). We recommend packing a dinner and picnicking on the grass. Lawn seating and picnic tables are first come, first served; so get there early!

Photo credit: Moonlight Amphitheatre

The Scoop on Seating

Moonlight Amphitheatre offers two types of seating: lawn and reserved. If you purchase a lawn seat, leave your seats at home. The Amphitheatre will supply you with lawn chairs upon entry. To get a good spot on the lawn, be sure to arrive early. Reserved seats are stadium style seats closest to the stage. Whether you select a reserved seat or a spot on the lawn, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. For parents who are afraid their little entertainer might steal the show, head up to the Great Lawn where kiddos have more space to get their wiggles and giggles out.

Moonlight Tips

• Parking is free and available throughout Brengle Terrace Park. The shuttle runs starting 2.5 hours before show time, and then again at the end of the performance. Plan to arrive early and wait in line to board the shuttle.
• Evenings can get chilly, even during the summer months. So layer clothing or bring a blanket to snuggle your little ones during the show.
• This venue draws a large a crowd, so be prepared to wait in line to enter the Amphitheatre.

1200 Vale Terrace

Vista, Ca 92084

760-724-2110

Online: moonlightstage.com

— Elizabeth Silva