As part of the $100 million Second Century Campaign, the Muny now has a new state-of-the-art stage. One of the largest challenges with the renovation was recreating the majestic tree canopy that was the original backdrop for the magnificent outdoor musical theatre.
Day one of renovation planning started with the entire Muny team collaborating with arborists, landscape architects, stage designers, and soil experts to make the best decisions for patrons, performers, the stage and the beloved trees.
Keeping the mighty oak tree on stage left was the hope all along. Moving through renovation plans, it became obvious that the tree needed to be removed for safety. After years of growing next to concrete structures, without the benefit of a proper growing environment, its root structure was far from healthy and stable. Because of this, the tree was rotting from the inside out.
Work is underway to preserve the legacy of the historic 300-year-old oak tree. Urban landscapers and arborists are grafting new trees from the mighty oak and they will be planted at The Muny in a couple of years!
Seven 30-foot-tall trees with root balls about 10 feet in diameter will make their Muny debut just in time for the opening of the 2020 season. State-Of-The-Art soil support and irrigation system have been added to ensure healthy growth.
The Muny is also dedicated to “growing young talent.” The Muny recently announced the acquisition of a $10 million gift from the Crawford Taylor Foundation, which supports The Muny’s Endowment Fund, and specifically supports The Muny’s education efforts. The Crawford Taylor Education Initiative will provide unprecedented, hands-on instruction and mentoring for youth hoping to pursue a career on or offstage in musical theatre.
This fund supports education and community outreach, artistic innovation, production enhancement, facilities maintenance and improvement, and operational sustainability.
June 15 - 21
Chicago
Start the car and head to a “whoopee spot” where crime and corruption are hot!
First Muny production since 2012!
https://muny.org/chicago/
June 24 - July 2
Mary Poppins
Based on one of the most popular films in history, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins is practically perfect in every way.
Second Muny production ever!
https://muny.org/marypoppins/
July 6 - 12
Sweeney Todd
The Broadway legend and American musical masterpiece makes its Muny debut.
Muny Premiere!
https://muny.org/sweeneytodd/
July 14 - 20
Smokey Joe's Cafe
Ben E. King, The Coasters, Elvis Presley, Peggy Lee, and The Drifters are the bread and butter of this show.
Muny Premiere!
https://muny.org/smokeyjoescafe/
July 23 - 29
The Sound of Music
A beloved Muny favorite once more.
First Muny production in a decade!
https://muny.org/soundofmusic/
August 1 - 7
On Your Feet!
Based on the inspiring true story of the queen of Latin pop, Gloria Estefan and her husband, Emilio.
Regional and Muny Premiere!
https://muny.org/onyourfeet/
August 10 - 16
Seven Brides For Seven Brothers
A dance-filled classic.
https://muny.org/sevenbridesforsevenbrothers/