Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, Annapolis

The Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre is an outdoor community theater that has entertained audiences since 1966. It was founded by local volunteers who wanted to bring live performances to an open-air setting during the warm months. The nonprofit theater still relies on volunteers for acting, directing, and stage work. Its season usually runs from late May through early September.

Unlike traditional theaters, this venue is built as an open-air stage with seating arranged around it. Shows take place outside, so performances often begin while there is still some daylight and continue as evening falls. Stage lights and simple sets help bring each production to life, while the outdoor setting creates a casual and welcoming atmosphere for audiences.

The theater focuses mainly on comedies, musicals, and other light, family-friendly productions. Over the years the theater has staged many popular Broadway and off-Broadway shows adapted for its smaller outdoor stage. Most productions feature local actors, musicians, and crew members, many of whom return each season. For visitors, a performance here offers an easygoing summer evening of community theater under the open sky.