The Muny, short for the Municipal Theatre Association of St. Louis, is an outdoor theater located in Forest Park in St. Louis. Since it is the oldest and largest outdoor musical theaters in the country, it also comes with a lot of history.
The Muny was founded in 1917 by a group of prominent St. Louis civic leaders, including Deaconess Elizabeth Cupples, who envisioned a large outdoor theater to provide free entertainment for the public. Additionally, the idea was inspired by the Forest Park Pageant, an annual outdoor production that showcased St. Louis’ cultural and artistic talent.
Construction of the outdoor theater began in 1918, and it officially opened on June 16, 1919, with a production of Robin Hood. The original seating capacity was around 9,000, and the theater featured a vast stage, elaborate sets, and professional lighting.
Over the years, the Muny gained popularity and continued to expand. In 1924, a pergola was added to enhance the stage, and the seating capacity was increased to 11,000. In addition, the theater underwent several renovations and improvements to accommodate larger productions and improve audience experience.
In the 1940s, the St. Louis Municipal Opera became one of the first theaters in the US to integrate racially. In 1944, African-American actress Juanita Hall made history by becoming the first person of color to perform on the stage. In fact, this move toward integration and diversity was a significant milestone in the theater’s history.
The Muny has hosted numerous iconic productions and has showcased the talents of many well-known performers. Over the years, renowned actors and actresses such as Virginia Mayo, Ethel Merman, Bernadette Peters, and Chita Rivera have graced the Muny stage, contributing to its reputation as a premier venue for musical theater.
The Muny has consistently attracted large audiences and has remained a popular cultural institution in St. Louis. It has produced a wide range of musicals, including classic Broadway hits, contemporary shows, and premieres of new works. The theater’s annual summer season typically features seven musical productions, running from mid-June to mid-August.
In recent years, the theater has undertaken various modernization projects. These efforts have included technical upgrades, improved seating, and the construction of the climate-controlled Emerson Performance Center.
Today, the Muny continues to be a cherished part of St. Louis’ cultural landscape. Additionally, the rich history and high-quality productions make it a beloved institution that attracts theater enthusiasts from across the region.
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