I just saw Kinky Boots...a tour de force performance by the leads and cast. Lola was spectacular. It is a poignant story that brought me to tears. Great songs and music. There's one week left. Don't miss it! read more

This organization has a history of dishonest communications with the public. For many years the company claimed it had James Dunn as Artistic Director, when in fact no such position ever existed in the company. More recently, it issued a press release about an upcoming hiatus, in which it claimed there have been six challenging seasons, but then discussed only challenges in the last five seasons. Requests for a resolution to the discrepancy have been ignored and snubbed. read more

We all look forward to this time of year when we gather up on Mt. Tam for a pleasant afternoon of magical sounds and a day with family, friends, locals, and tourists. It's quite a trek to make it up to the theater. Some people hike up and down, 7 miles one-way. Even with the bus shuttles, it's an all day excursion. Highly recommended, it's family-friendly, and the kids have a wonderful time. Food and drinks are allowed, bring your picnic baskets, lots of sunscreen, a blanket, a sweater, portable seat (or rent one), and a hat. I've been here for Hairspray, The Sound of Music (100th anniversary), and this year it's Beauty and the Beast. My son has worked up here as a Cub Scout selling ice cream, good times! Over the years, the price has gone up like everything else in the Bay Area. Parking is now $20 ($15 online + $4 service fee), or you can choose to hike. There will be a music concert on Saturday, June 10, 2017, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first outdoor rock festival. Mountain Play will host a one-day outdoor music festival featuring Jefferson Starship and a concert version of HAIR. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBQVrCflZ_E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1b8AhIsSYQ It will be EPIC! read more

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What a great venue! We were able to purchase a parking pass for the Air Force lot. Parking was a breeze and the we organized volunteers had us on the agility level in no time. Our seats were reserved, so we did not have to worry about where to sit. Great musical and beautiful setting. read more

Mountain Play - Performing Arts Near Me

Ok I'm gonna preface this review and say that I do not like "roughing it" outdoors. I hate camping and all the things (dirt, wiggly stuff, no hot showers etc) that come with it. I got invited to Mountain Play by a friend a couple of years ago. I'm a big theatre fan so I had an idea of an outdoor amphitheatre ala Woodminster when I was asked to go. Imagine my shock when we took the free bus up to the mountain and found out that we had to sit in the DIRT under the HOT blazing sun to watch the show. Not a shade available anywhere, people! My friend did bring some stadium cushions for us to sit on but that did not compensate for my aching back (no back support anywhere) and my sunburned neck (yeah I wore a cap and had sun block but that sun was awfully hot! It's like sitting under a food warmer. Now I know how cooked food felt!). Bus ride down was tedious at best. That was my first and last experience. I'm giving them 2 stars cuz of the show and the fact that they are non-profit. Yeah I'm a pampered princess, so sue me! read more

What I didn't mention in my 2008 review is that I had Gayle and David along and: - We were going to walk down, but the Kid refused after the show was over. - Before the show, I started talking about how Gayle and I could make living together work. She got pretty nervous about that, but we continued on. We got engaged on Valentine's Day 2009 and were married April 2010. Gayle and I returned in the summer of 2016 for the production of West Side Story. We really enjoyed the show (with a little more shade) and walked all the way down to Mill Valley. This was great practice for our 9 hour/20 mile hike (Fimmvörðuháls) in Iceland a short time later. We hope to return next summer (2017) for Beauty and the Beast. read more

Thank you yelpers for the tips. Mama mia was great. The shuttle was convenient, available before 12:45pm. I would suggest get there two hours early for shuttle and scouting out seats. The tam high parking was full so we snagged a street parking. $5 for round trip bus ride that took 40 min through winding roads one way. The parking nearby were sold online (sold out). Thumbs up for the bus drivers. The organization was 5 stars. Walk through vendors. Pick up the chocolate chip cookies before finding your seat because those cookies were gone when you walk back to the rotary booth. Barefoot donated the wines, of course you pay. The mountain cafe had 20 people in line. Next time presale your sandwiches on line-so people don't have to spend their time in line. Definately bring cushions or stadium seats or you can rent them. My back is a little sore without having a back to lean on. We found shade next to reserve seating. Mountain seats are self explanatory. One evac emergency. Got to give the police, emergency team two thumbs up. Sunny. The announcement was to keep hydrated because of high attitude and mountain air. We left a few minutes early to stand in line for the bus which stops at the two parking: manzanita and tam high school. Remember not to loose your ticket. No need to figure out what color your ticket. All goes in one bus. I just didn't want to wait in line but there at least 10 buses available. Plenty of toilet potties available. This event is a family affair! One kid was very immature making fun of the singers. I hope he'll grow to love musicals. He had to be talked to. Lots of babies and toddlers. It's nice that people bring picnic baskets. Cool. read more

Mountain Play - Mama mia stage. - Performing Arts Near Me

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Ok, so some experiences aren't for everyone . . . but I can't believe that anyone wouldn't love this theater experience. No, it is not the SAN FRANCISO OPERA, nor is it a theater on BROADWAY IN MANHATTAN. But it is one of the most GLORIOUS OUTDOOR THEATERS! A large STONE AMPHITHEATER (seats approximately 4,000 folks) built by the CCC on a NORTHERN CALIFORNIA MOUNTAINSIDE. The views will take your breath away - the Pacific Ocean and the greater San Francisco Bay! If you come prepared to enjoy the productions, the atmosphere and the comradery of fellow theater goers, you will have the TIME OF YOUR LIFE! The 2007 season gave us the wonderful production and music of "HAIR! " I saw it at least 5 times! In 2008 we will all have the opportunity to become part of the LAND AND CHARACTERS OF OZ! I, for one, will click my little red heels together and be at the front of the line when tickets go on sale. After all. . . . "THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!" . . . . . . . . except for maybe on the top of MT. TAMALPAIS in May & June with a blanket, a picnic basket, a bottle of wine and a few good friends to share it with. Come join me in 2008 at the WIZARD OF OZ! read more

We went to see Hairspray on Sunday and we all LOVED IT!!! the bus ride was fun in a school bus - how many times do you get to go in one!! Just don't eat before the ride. Curby!! The performance was great and the cast was excellent. I personally love Ms. Zelinsky in the role of Michelle Pfeiffer. Very funny and great voice. The volunteers were all smiles and the weather was gorgeous. Bathrooms were porta potty, but surprisingly clean. Brink a picnic and a glass of wine or beer, big hat and sunblock. You will get a sun tan for sure!! Seating in the rock can be a bit rough so bring a blanket or a seat. I couldn't have thought of a better way to enjoy my Sunday!! read more

Mountain Play - Performing Arts Near Me

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Last Sunday, it was my first time to see a play on the mountain play. There were many things that I had been concerned about before I got home that night. Since they mention the parking space is limit, I decided to park my car at the high school in Mill Valleys. I was nervous because what would have happened if there were not enough parking spaces for my family. Actually, we arrived at 9:40 am. and there were plenty of parking spaces. That concern had been taken care of. After I went there, I realized that even when the parking space is full, you could go around and park on the other side of the school on the back as long as you could get back to the front drop off, there were shuttles to take you to the mountain. Then, I was concerned about the seats. What happened if all the good seats were taken? Actually, good seats were taken but it was not too bad. There are more shaded area than the mountain play association said. I think they built more recently. The cover area didn't block out the sun completely. In fact, it reduce the Sun to half. If you can bear the heat, you could sit all the way down and close to the stage. However, we decided to sit near the top because we think that we could hear the sound pretty well. It turn out we were right. Some people are meant or simply don't mind things around much. They came after other people but the set up the blanket widely to make it hard for people who need to get out to use the restroom. Also, when you share your seat with them, they tend to move their seats a little by little until you realized you were put too far out. The restroom is fine for a mountain. It's close and they offer limited of water. The food and the wine selection are great. The price is not very expensive. You can order cold beer, wine, shaved ice. The shuttle service is excellent. After the play almost done, we existed the area and already saw Mountain Play Express shuttle waiting. They organizers sent people in and the shuttle took off in short time. If they have good play for entire family kids and adults, I will go back again in the future. I will park my car and take the shuttle service again. Maybe next time I can hike down the mountain. Overall, I had a good time with my family. Great experiences added to life. Don't forget to eat your dinner at Mill Valleys if you come from other areas. The Mill Valleys city has everything you need. read more

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I spent my early Sunday morning winding up the mountain in my BMW, pushing the gas until I redlined. I felt like I was in the commercial for television, pushing the ultimate driving machine to it's limits, winding around the annoyingly slow tourists and the rampant biciclysts taking advantage of the beautiful day. After experiencing what felt like 90 percent of Tam's curvy roads I came upon a break in the road, and knew I was there. Once a year, for usually six shows, Mill Valley's Mountain Play does it again, setting up a great scened show in a beautiful ampitheatre buried somewhere near the top of Mt. Tam in the woods. They were bringin' it this year, with Guys and Dolls. Needless to say I left singing half of the tunes, and I still have some stuck in my head. Sunny and beautiful, you toast out there without sunscreen and a hat, but if you come prepared (and they rent little poofy chairs for your butt's pleasure) it's a really neat experience. It's really a "day trip" for your friends, or your family. It goes further than just the play. But I must say, this years cast really did it, belting out their best in those east coast accents, and roughin it up just like they did in the ol' days when attempting to play craps when you just shouldn't be. But you can't hate on them. I'd play craps 7 days a week if I could get away with it, or get to Vegas on a weekly basis. I'm good, I throw sixes, and all day. It's not something you usually do twice in the same season, but it's worth that beautiful drive and a couple of bucks to check it out for it's yearly show. Helps us support our local arts, do something different and gives us an opportunity to have a picnic, and you never lose with a sunny summer day, and a killer picnic. read more

The Mountain Play is many things... and many of them have already been described in detail. The whole theater is *outside,* just about at the top of the highest mountain in the county. That means you really must dress in layers/prepare for any kind of weather: a.) It could be the hottest day ever witnessed in the likes of this here place, and if so, you are going to be unbelievable uncomfortable if you are not ready for it. Bring a hat, sunscreen, lots of cool water, fan, and spray-bottle. It could also be b.) so cold and misty the show was almost canceled. Bring waterproof jacket, seats, waterproof sleeping bag, warm food, and many layers. In either case: bring plenty of beer or wine (don't let the person driving you drink! Them mountain roads are very twisty - turney!), bring good company, bring yourself up the mountain early enough to make a day of it, and bring some type of snacks- though they also sell food inside. You can take a bus up and down from Mill Valley. The mountain play is very organized and the people who came up first get to leave first, those who arrive last leave last (and so on..). You can also drive up and park in one of many lots. The last lot that the play will park you in costs money. I think it costs $5. There are shuttles running from the main parking lots to the front gate and back. These shuttles are available throughout the morning and also the show. You can also hike or bike to the show (and/or back). The front gate will park your bike for you. Just be prepared for a vigorous day outside. So long as you are ready, you will have fun. read more

Week-before-last I surprised my wife with a Sunday at the Mountain Play. We had a blast! A little background: She nor I had ever been. She is an alumna of the Cecilian Society at the University of Glasgow (i.e. she knows her musical theatre). Being Stern Grove veterans, we know how to manage our outdoor entertainment. We got up early and drove to the summit (near the amphitheater). Because we were early (appx. 9:30 arrival) we had choice of most of the general admission area, though it appeared that the cast had staked out prime aisle seats for their families (with which I have no issue). We picnicked and we made new friends adjacent to us. We went for a short hike. We browsed the booths and the merchandise near the entrance. We chatted among the two of us. We enjoyed watching the morning rehearsals on the stage. It was chilling out like we haven't done in a while. BTW, the show starts at 2:00. The play was Peter Pan, replete with pullys and wires to enable Peter to fly! I admit that I expected a somewhat cheesy local theatre production, but I was wrong. Direction, acting, dancing, costumes, singing, orchestra...all were great! My wife was gobsmacked! (I had to use a British expression here). If you're going for the first time: --Be prepared for weather. We had hot sunshine, cloudiness and fog alternating throughout the day. One must layer! --If you get there later and have to take parking shuttles, bring your patience! I recommend that you plan to hang out after the show ends and not spend time in a long-ish line. --The amphitheater is an old WPA project, and is made of rocks on a semi-circle around the stage. There is dirt so don't bring super-fancy clothes. Next year we are bringing something to put our feet on so we don't get our shoes so dirty. --Go to the Mountain Play website for the full skinny: https://mountainplay.org/ . So go forth and attend the Mountain Play! It is a very Bay Area thing to do. We're hooked and can't wait for next year!! read more

In the interest of full disclosure, I could be biased, because I work here. But The Mountain Play is an incredible annual event that a lot of people aren't aware of. Every May and June, we present a grand-scale Broadway musical in a 4,000 seat amphitheatre on top of Mount Tamalpais overlooking the entire Bay Area. Patrons are bussed up for free from downtown Mill Valley, and are welcome to bring any kind of food and drink into the theater. People show up as early as 8am, and hang out all day, reading the paper, hiking on the mountain or watching warm-ups and pre-show entertainment. Last year, I saw a guy with a margarita machine. This year, we're doing Wizard of Oz, and run Sunday's from May and June in 2008. All shows are at 1pm, and tickets are available online or by calling the office. This isn't just a play. This is an awesome day on the mountain... read more

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For more than 10 years this has been a tradition of ours. We have actually seen a couple plays twice! It is an all day event and most every year the musical is produced top notch. BUT... the past 3 or 4 years there have been too many annoying issues for us to keep up all the effort. Most significantly, time after time, we started to feel and see some animosity from some folks who perhaps were "regulars" or "locals" reprimanding people on where to sit and how to sit - too far forward, too far back, too spread out, etc. - unwelcoming and again annoying considering the vast space of rock and dirt you are trying to make yourself comfortable on for the 3-4+ hours you sit sweating in the 100 degree sun! Only one (1) year was it foggy. Every other time the weather has been HOT like 90s-100+ so there is that and you really need to plan ahead and for this. Most of the seating is not shaded and getting a spot out of the sun is key and not always the case when you are late. Arrive at least two hours early to be safe and bring a hat. Getting up to the theater is all part of the experience - you pick your parking lot and take a school bus shuttle (about 45 mins to top). This was never really an issue but the last few years we noticed unbelievable traffic on 101, thru Mill Valley. This year it took more than an hour to get from San Rafael to Mt. Tam High where we like to park. Since the school has expanded and there are weekend sports events (soccer, swimming) parking is even more scarce. And the other parking lots are the ones shared with the crowds heading to Muir Woods. It's very difficult and you need to get there early. The first year we went, after the play ended, the announcement was made as to how to get buses back down. The system was color coded and, of course, our color was last so we all decided we could hike down quicker than the hour wait they were telling us. Huge mistake if you don't plan to hike (eg shoes, backpacks, water) but we struggled down painfully for the 3 hour downhill trek and later laughed about it. Then every year after it was all part of the plan to hike down after. However, this year, we decided to take the bus down for a change and have dinner in Mill Valley. Apparently there is no more color coded system to exit and those of us not in the "Premier/VIP" group were told to wait about 30 mins to get in line. The play ended around 4:30 PM and we sat a bit, packed up, went to the toilets and then saw that the line to leave extended back into the theater and around!! We got in line and waited. We waited for 3 hours!!! And by 5 PM the sun was setting and the wind picked up and we were freezing and tired. At 6 PM I called the restaurant to cancel (big bummer). When our bus came around 7:30 PM people in line cheered like we had been stranded for days and I felt horrible as we drove away and others were still in line. By the time we got back down the hill and stopped at the 2 other lots, we arrived back to Mt Tam High around 8:20 PM :-\ This was not a fun day. And just when I thought I couldn't feel any worse, I arrived back to my car parked behind the high school, next to the soccer field and found it scratched/keyed all down the side. Enough said?? p.s. we had it right the first year - it is quicker to just hike down rather than wait for the stupid bus read more

Alright. I'm a thespian. And, last year, I met my boyfriend when we were both performing in the Mountain Play's production of Hair. We fell in love on the mountain and so I guess that may have helped in changing my opinion. Growing up, I could think of nowhere on earth I'd LESS like to see a show than on a mountain. Heatstroke, car sick from the ride, an baking in the sun for a show I couldn't see because i was too short was a godawful experience every time I went. Perhaps having appeared as a performer last year or perhaps I've just grown up-but I had a great time at the theater this weekend! The MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR EXPERIENCE is how you prepare. Bring more water than booze. Apply sunscreen when you think you don't need it. Bring something to rest your ass on. And most importantly, seek shade if you need it. Dress in layers because the mornings are cold and by showtime its scorching. Taking care of yourself is the most important feature of the experience. The Mountain Play consistently brings on board the top quality performers that Marin County and parts of the bay area has to offer. The choreography of Rick Wallace is always beautifuly calculated and executed, complimenting what ever style is featured for that year's production. At the very least, I encourage everyone to try the Mountain Play at least once. If you prepare yourself well enough and plan on drinking more water than beer, you'll likely enjoy a terrific show and want to come back for future performances. As for the boyfriend, I imagine that we'll continue to come back each season to remember our own performances on the mountain and where our lives changed for the best! read more

Having grown up in SanFrancisco and spending many a summer camped at Liberty Tree Meadow watching Shakespeare in the Park, I'm not exactly sure how I didn't catch wind of the institution know as The Mountain Play until a few years back. What a wonderful thing do on a weekend; pack some wine, cheese, and a group of good friends to go relax in the beautiful redwoods while being entertained by a traditional musical. It's not Broadway, and it doesn't intend to be. It's a family affaire that makes a memorable experience. It's one of those things that you attend for the event, as much as the production it's self. You can sit and watch the show, or lay back, sip your merlot , and listen to the singing and the whispered gossip around you. We're in a sad time when the only really successful theater is either a revamp, a movie, or a production sadly un-shocking in its attempt to be shocking. Events like this warm my heart with the feeling of community, and individuality, that is doing nothing more than trying to give drama lovers what they love best; a good time. When you spend a day on top of the mountain, one knows that they are amongst not only drama lovers, but lovers of the mountain play it's self. That kind of loyalty is what makes the Bay Area great, and is always worth visiting to see where it comes from. read more

First of all, I am a sucker for a musical Secondly I love community theater Lastly - Mt Tam, need I say more But even with all of that, I can't recommend the mountain play strongly enough. Whatever the musical, it is a great day. Bring a picknic, a bottle (or two or 3) and lots of sun screen. No matter how foggy in the morning do not be fooled, by the time the play starts you will be basting in the sun... The productions are always really well done and it is obvious that the people involved are passionate about what they are doing. Others will talk about the view, and the sun and the crowds, but as they say, the play is the thing and this year (2008) The Wizard of Oz did not disappoint. Strong cast, great sets, and a story that holds up surprisingly well. Yes you have seen the movie, but until you watch a guy in a lion suit singing live on stage with the sun making it feel like 110 degrees, you have never been to the theater. read more

Full disclosure: I hate live theater, I can't stand actors and anything that involves heat and booze usually makes me sleep-- some time ago an ex of mine dumped me for snoring during Macbeth (I was drunk and the heat was on). So, going to see the 'Wizard of Oz' today in the hot, hot sun was certainly going to crush me-- I missed the whole communication that you could bring booze up there and I was very envious of all the people that knew that you could drink, but, I was able to stay fully awake. Back to the play. I loved it!! The production was amazing!!! I love how ingenious people can be (the 'Surrender Dorothy' moment was pure classic. They actually bravely used a live dog for Toto which brought out some funny moments.) I actually didn't mind the hard rock seats and limited shade as it felt historic. The setting is stunning and the vibe of the people is quite nice. Probably would have been 5 stars but some idiot blue-hair c0ckblocked me out of my seat on the bus and then some bleach-blond yelled at me for honking at her husband (the dude stopped in the middle of the highway (sir, there are things called shoulders!!)) Darn Mill Valleyites are everywhere!!! I guess that is what 'The invasion of the body snatchers' was all about. read more

Saw Hairspray this season, it was good not great. I've been here a handful of times and the venue never disappoints - mix up nature, theater, great energy, and good friends.... it's the simple things in life make me happy - I just wish this amazing venue had something else going on during these gorgeous months. Nudge nudge dear Board... read more

Yes, this event is wonderful, granted, if you come prepared and you enjoy the outdoors.. The Mountain Play gives you an opportunity to enjoy several outdoor activities all wrapped up in one.. hiking, live classic performances, and a picnic to name a few .. I have been enjoying these performances for the past few years, and what an amazing time! Put some sunblock on, pack a picnic, prepare for a scenic hike up the hill.. Mt. Tam has such beauty.. once you arrive at the outdoor amphitheater, find a seat, (hopefully in the shade..) relax, and enjoy the view.. Each production is well thought and regardless of what you do (eat, relax and watch the entertainment) you have many avenues to enjoy yourself.. This year the performance hosted Guys' and Dolls.. bright costumes, talented performers, singing and dancing.. all the productions are fun and once your done, you have a second opportunity for a hike, this time, down the hill.. or if you can't, there are buses to the parking lots.. Yes, it's a lot of fun! read more

I was very disappointed with the show. Transportation up the mountain: Ride up the mountain was ok. It was in a school bus. If you are prone to car sickness this is not the way to go. One bus actually got lost and went all the way down to the ocean. If you do go, park at the High School. Only because on the way down the mountain, the go to the high school first. Seating: -we got there 3 hours early and we couldn't even get seats in the shade. It was too hot. They need to invest in more shade. - it's not comfortable Sound: the quality of the sound system was bad. Sometimes it was too loud, sometimes it wasn't loud enough. Show: High School quality. It wasn't that great. The actors didn't have a lot of energy. Some actors were incredible but most were mediocre. Music: The band was great, the sound quality wasn't. Food: Cups had no lids. We had to go back 3 times to get everything Food quality was good It's wonderful that you can bring your own food. They don't really have the space for it in seating and on the bus, so pack wisely. Transportation down the mountain: We waited forever in line. They were not very organized. People kept cutting to the side of the line and around the line. Someone, behind us almost got car sick, luckily the bus driver had a bag that she could give us. Overall: I wouldn't do this again. It was a waste of an entire day. Save your dollars and go into the city to broadway show at the SHN. read more

The Mountain Play "Mama Mia" up on Mt. Tam this year is very good. The acting, singing and production of the cast is excellent. The staff working the event was very helpful in directing the public to their seats. The vendors are fun and serve the public promptly. The biggest problem was at the end of the performance. The crowd was very polite and lined up to catch the shuttles going down the mountain. But there was a woman who worked there, who was suppose to direct the line to the busses. But she wasn't doing her job! The public was waiting and the busses were there - but she didn't move the crowd to the waiting busses. Everyone was just standing there for 15-20 mins. The line waiting now went all the way back to the theater! This was such an unnecessary delay. There were a lot of elderly people in the line, it was extremely hot, and this created a safety hazard. It ruined the end of a nice day and a very good performance. read more

Okay, people. Full disclosure here -- I am a huge Mountain Play fan. I have been coming to the shows since I was a young child (50 years) and it is as enjoyable now as it was back in the 60s -- even more so because the show selections are better and more current. Going to the Mountain Play is a unique experience. You aren't going there just for live theater. It's that and so much more. I have seen "Hairspray" twice now and intend to go again. I love not only the show, but the actors' enthusiasm and talent, the fabulous band, eating lunch outside atop the mountain, and the spectacular views of SF and the Pacific Ocean. Don't like to sit outdoors? Don't go. Don't like rocks and the possible baby lizard scurrying across your foot? Don't go. Need to be in an air conditioned, fully pampered venue? Then this isn't the place for you. But if you love the combination of nature, amazing views, fun theater, and the unity of 2,000 other people clapping along to a song, then go see "Hairspray." You won't be sorry. It's sheer fun -- and we all need a little of that in our lives these days. read more

This was our first, and will be an annual day long event. We got to the parking lot at 11:30 for the shuttle, half hour in line then the 30 minute breathtaking ride up the mountain. The bus driver was entertaining as well. It was so crowded by 1pm that seating for 7 was only way in the back, not optimum, but with dappled shade. It added to the ambiance to have to look around the trucks of oak trees to see the whole stage. We will go MUCH earlier next year, claim our seats, then do some hiking and picture taking. Lots of little children in the audience, so kid noises and distractions plus running around before and after, clueless of the poison oak in some areas. The Sound of Music was magnificent. Even way in the back the music and words were loud and clear. The acting superb and the stage setup impressive. The rotating scenes were a pleasure to experience and the sidecar motorcycle and the 1938 decked out car wonderful. Two bloopers added to the enjoyment, a screen would not stay open, and the Nazi flag could not be completely taken down. We took a picnic which was wonderful, and had perfect weather, the weekend before it had been over 100 degrees on Saturday, and cold, with rain at the finale on Sunday so layering, sunscreen, prepare for the elements. Next year we plan lunch picnic and dinner picnic to wait out the line for the shuttle. We kicked back and it took an hour and a half to catch the shuttle without much of a line. Because the shuttle will carry your stuff so one can do the 21/2 hour hike down, we might hike the 8 miles down next year. Also, I understand that people who donate are given preference to the first buses, that is a wonderful bonus to donating. If the concessions had stayed open after the performance they probably would have made a fortune. The balloon lady, leaving after a hard days work saw a boys balloon pop and stopped, opened up her suitcase and redid a balloon giraffe, good for her! Absolutely a wonderful, full day. read more

Best Mountain Play I've seen in recent years. West Side Story - with excellent choreography, great set, leads with professionally trained voices, fun costumes. Highly recommended! read more

Mountain Play - Perfect weather Great show - Performing Arts Near Me

Such a wonderful venue to enjoy the fabulous company at this theater. And then ... a concert by Jefferson Starship! Insanely great talent all around. Too bad there is not a food station at the lower level. Hard to be inspired to walk all the way back up for a hot dog. We were in Director's Circle seats--wouldn't it behoove you to provide a food station down there? A big disappointment upon our return to our car. We were directed to park under the freeway right next to a huge puddle. Apparently many other cars drove in and out after us because the back of our recently washed car looked like we had been off-roading. Maybe reconsider where you are sending people with their cars. Have you seen what they are charging for a c wash these days? So...we LOVED the day at Mountain Play! Too bad about the bummer at the end. read more

The mountain play is held in a greek style stone amplitheatre on top of Mt. Tam. Every summer they feature a different production. You can either drive, hike or be shuttled up from Mill Valley. Pack wine and a picnic and enjoy a great play in the out of doors. read more

All of the other reviews are accurate, even Gourmet G.'s. So you have to know what you're getting into and be in the mood for it. One goes to the Mountain Play for fun and fresh air (and maybe to get drunk) more than to see a play. But the play is fun, too! Come on, it's the top of Mount Tam, not Broadway, sheesh. BTW, for 2007 it's Fiddler on the Roof, and as Tevye said, "without our traditions our lives would be as shaky, as...as....as a fiddler on the roof." read more

The Mountain Play is FANTASTIC! We've gone every year for the past 11 and have never been disappointed! Bring along a hat, lots of sunblock and water ... even a picnic lunch (or you can buy one on the mountain). Find your "rock" in the outdoor amphitheater, and relax and enjoy the sunshine and a wonderful show! The performances are well done and every year the cast is amazing! It's a great way to spend time outdoors and with family and friends. read more

This is my second year attending the Mountain Play, and with it's beautiful setting on the slopes of Mt. Tam facing south towards the City, ease of getting there with free and convenient bus shuttles, and the thrill of live musical theatre, I have always come away with a feeling of time and money well spent. The 2011 production of "Hairspray" is a lively, G-rated adaptation of the original John Waters film, with its themes of racial segregation, body image issues, family values and tolerance artfully presented in a way to make it educational as well as funny and entertaining for children and adults alike. The scenes were fast-paced and blended into each other flawlessly, with the actors moving to a new set on a different part of the huge stage. The colorful sets themselves are cleverly designed, some mounted on rotating turntables that support large props for certain scenes. All of the music is created by a live orchestra which is hidden backstage, and delivers the musical score right on cue. Because of the size of the Amphitheater, all of the principle actors and singers are equipped with headset microphones which are nearly invisible from a distance. The overall sound quality is very good, with huge stadium speaker towers placed on either side of the stage area. With its fast pace and numerous song and dance numbers, it kept me and everyone else interested, so it seemed that it was over in no time, leaving the audience in a mellow and relaxed mood. There were also standout performances by individual actors, most of them local, and overall a well-done performance. A HUGE plus to my comfort level was that I rented a padded STADIUM SEAT there that saved my rear end from the hard rock seats of the amphitheater, well worth $5 - $10 (the $10 seat has the best back support as well). This year the weather is also unseasonably cooler, making now the best time to see the fabulous Mountain Play. Also, the performances seem to get better with each show, but there are only six shows per season, so go while you can! read more

Here is the straight scoop from someone who has learned the hard way. We went to see Mama Mia this past Sunday, and it was fabulous. No problems with the sound system, as others had complained. The quality of the performance was quite good, just below professional quality. This was our first time, and we had a great time. Everyone at the performance, both staff and spectators, we're super nice. As for the commute and parking situation, we found it to be pretty easy. We had been warned that the traffic would be bad, especially because there was also a big race that day to Stinson Beach. We ran into traffic and had no problem parking. However, the main parking at the high school fills up very fast. We learned from other reviewers that simply getting back onto Miller and going to the back of the high school affords much more parking, so we managed to nab a spot there. We got to the parking lot around 11 o'clock, so not terribly late, which goes to show how early everyone shows up. We took the shuttle up to the amphitheater, and discovered that most of the seating in the shade was already taken, most of it being saved by people putting down blankets. We were lucky enough to find about 3 feet of exposed rock, just enough for us to squeeze in, so we were pretty happy. Most of the shade falls on the seats that are further from the stage, so you sort of have to make a choice between shade and a close-up view. You also need to pay attention, not only to what the sun is like when you get there, but where it will be at 2 o'clock and later. We decided to do the hike down, after others that complain about how long it took to wait for shuttles. The trail down is accessed by walking all the way through the theater on the bCk "aisle". Let me just be upfront by saying that, if time is your main concern, wait for the shuttle. It took us two hours to go about 2 1/2 miles. The mountain trail is a one track, very uneven trail, so you can only go as fast as the person in front of you, and there are a lot of people in front of you. The first 2 1/2 miles are through the forest trail and offer spectacular, really spectacular, views. When you come off the trail, you come to the fire station and the mountain inn restaurant. We found that there would be shuttles available to pick people up at that point, and many people stayed to do that. We elected to continue the hike, but we would not recommend it. Once you leave that point, you are walking on residential streets for the rest of the walk. The spectacular views are pretty much gone, though the redwood forest is beautiful and the multi million dollar homes are beautiful. The hike finally dumped us out in Mill valley, at a point that is almost 2 miles from the high school. We foolishly decided to walk, instead of grabbing a cab or an Uber, and that was a mistake. We got back to our car about 3 1/2 hours after starting out on the trail, which was about 8 o'clock. After we left the end of the trail, we never saw any other walkers, so it was obvious to us that everyone finds some other way to get back to the high school. If you want to hike, we recommend that you hike the mountain trail and then avail yourself of a shuttle at the inn. To do this, you have to get to that point by 630, to pick up the last of the shuttles. We would not recommend walking through the residential areas unless you are an inveterate hiker or a glutton for punishment. By the time we were done, my iWatch said we had hiked almost 8 miles. Definitely, grab a cab or an Uber when you get to Millvalley. In summary, go early, remember there is parking behind the high school as well as the front,stake out a spot that looks to get some shade(the very back, behind the shade structure may be the best bet if you are late), only hike the mountain trail part of the hike, or if you hike the whole way to Millvalley, catch a cab to the high school read more

I went to this a few years back and had the most amazing time. Live theater at its best with a lively set of characters and a lot of laughs! Bring your sunblock though because there is literally no shade. And be prepared to sit on the ground and get a little dirty, this is not foe the fussy crowd. We brought some wine, snacks, and made a day of it relaxing with great friends. I just realized its sold out for 2013 so bummed. read more

2012's The Music Man is about as good as it gets! This is full-on performance that takes advantage of the space and outdoor environment. I certainly know much of the music from The Music Man, but there were parts of the music and the dialog that I hadn't remembered that sure made this fun! Of course, the core music is fantastic. The orchestra behind stage did a great job. The setting of the theater is, of course, one of the greatest in the State. Be prepared for sun, so bring sunscreen, water, water sprayers and hats! Bring your lunch, or buy it from one of the local not-for-profit vendors. Come early to stake out your space, or move a bit to the east side of the theater -- there always seems room. There is a shade cover at the top, but those spots seem to be taken early. If you have any handicapped people with you, call and you can get a great spot with a deck chair or room for a wheelchair. Have a great time! read more

They canceled today's performance because of wind. They did not bother emailing to warn us. They would not refund my $122 since I cannot make the last performances. They claim they are a nonprofit so they can mess with us read more

Went to see 'West Side Story' today and it was my first mountain play. Felt compelled to say bravo to the two leads - who were terrific. Especially the actor playing Tony. He was affecting, real and he's got a lovely voice. read more

The Mountain Play, 'West Side Story', was a fabulous production with excellent talent. The pre-play entertainment group was excellent, too. The content for both groups performances was 'spot on' with thought provoking current topics! A must see for all ages. We had a wonderful day joining others in a 'Great outdoor theatre adventure'! Many thanks to all of the Mt. play staff and volunteers who guided us throughout the day. read more

A once-in-a-lifetime experience because, once you've experienced it, you'll never want to do it again. Aside from the fact that the quality of the production we saw fell somewhere between High School of the Performing Arts and off-off-Broadway (i.e., Peoria), we were trapped upon a mountaintop - seated on uncomfortable first-come, first-serve seats in the blazing sun - for hours, surrounded by a crowd of theatergoers that seemed to think, because the theater was outdoors, endless kibitzing, passing food and beverages back and forth, and/or allowing noisy children to roam free during the performance was acceptable behavior. Patrons are bussed to the amphitheater from a parking lot down below, and the wait for transportation after the final curtain was nearly an hour long. (The alternative is to hike down, a dismal prospect when you're tired and overheated and your nerves are frayed.) Serious lovers of the theater, beware . . . this is entertainment designed solely for families and friends seeking a party inconveniently interrupted by a two-act play. read more

Let me preface my review by saying that the 2010 production and performance of Guys & Dolls was extremely well done and entertaining. However my experience was unfortunately colored by an incredible inattention to detail for those hiking up to the play. While the organizers expect many to hike down and thus mark the route clearly with directions and guides, there was absolutely no consideration for those attempting to hike up to the Mountain Theater. At the Mountain Home Inn I mistakenly took the hiking trail/fire road versus the paved road up to the fire station (which then connected to the proper trailhead). Who knew? It was certainly not marked. After hiking the wrong side of the Mt. Tam I corrected my mistake and arrived just before showtime; only to learn that one cannot purchase tickets at the southern entrance. This required me to walk completely through the theater, down a path and back out to the only ticket booth near the road. Again, poorly thought out. When I commented that the ticket prices were more at the door than on line the box office attendant jokingly replied: "that's how we get you." Not what I wanted to hear at the time. Again a great show, but also much room for improvement. read more

We went for "Sound of Music" play few years ago and had a great time. This year, we plan to do it again and bought 6 Patron circle tickets with lunch. Unfortunately, we have an emergency situation and have to leave country for a few of weeks. I understand the no refund police, but hate to waste the tickets for the great event, so I called to the organization to offer a donation for these tickets, to my surprise, they don't want them and tell me to pass along by myself which is not convenient for me due to the unusual situation I have at the moment. Hate to say that I am very disappointed. read more