Ohio's Outdoor theater

This summer immerse yourself in the history and folklore of Ohio’s native people and its early pioneers by attending one or more of our state’s outstanding outdoor dramas. We are blessed to have a wide variety of open air performances ranging from history, musicals, dramas, Shakespeare’s work, even a “passion” play. My next few posts will take a closer look at some of the Buckeye State's outdoor theater.

Many of us from the river cities are aware of “Tecumseh”. But if you are not aware of this story, Tecumseh tells the story of the fierce warrior who attempted to unit the Indian tribes and establish a city on the Tippecanoe River to thwart the westward expansion of the United States.

This sweeping drama plays out nightly at 8 p.m. in the picturesque Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater just north of Chillicothe. However, the theater offers early arrivals the chance to explore the Prehistoric Indian Mini-Museum and see displays of prehistoric Indian artifacts from the Scioto Valley. The museum is open from 5 to 7:45 p.m. and is free of charge.

Also theater goers can take an exciting Backstage Tour of the theater complex where cast members serve as tour guides. During the tour stuntmen from Tecumseh give a dazzling display of stage combat and flintlock firing, then pitch headfirst from a twenty-one foot cliff, get up and explain how they did it. Tours are offered at 4 and 5 p.m. daily, allowing guests’ time to enjoy dinner at the Tecumseh Restaurant Terrace. The Terrace offers an American buffet and is open from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

To get reservations for all of these events call 866-775-0700 or visit www.tecumsehdrama.com.