Framed by tall rustling trees and a sparkling river, a stage reigned by theater magic comes to life as the sun goes down. The audience quiets as the first notes of the overture fill the air. Months of preparation and attention to every detail will soon be on display, mesmerizing the assembled fans eager to be entertained.
Central Oregon supports live theater performance, with at least 11 youth and adult theater companies in the area producing more than 30 shows yearly. While interest in theater is high, the region has a shortage of indoor venues that accommodate large audiences. Theater in the Park (TIP), from Lay it Out Events, addresses the lack of performance space by taking it all outdoors, transforming Bend’s Drake Park into a 1,000-seat theater for two nights each August. For seven years, TIP has brought together locals and visitors for an annual musical theater performance enlivened by the natural environment. “It’s a thousand people all cracking up together with the river and the sunset as a backdrop,” said Lay It Out Events Producer Aaron Switzer. “It is Drake Park at its best.”
Behind the Scenes of Theater in the Park in Bend
Eight months before curtain call is when Michelle Mejaski and Desi Thrower, TIP’s co-directors, first meet to exchange ideas about productions to bring to the stage. After approval from the producer and financier, they apply for rights and then wait. Little can be accomplished until the show title is finalized. Then the work begins.
How Theater in the Park Plans a Production
The TIP production of The Producers, showing August 14 and 15, is a favorite for the directors. Mejaski also acts as choreographer for the show, and Thrower steps in as the costumer. They enlist a vocal director, music director, lighting and sound master, plus a set designer, then the planning sessions begin. It’s now four months to curtain time.
What It Takes to Build an Outdoor Theater in Drake Park
Before the show is known to the public, and before any actor has the opportunity to envision themselves in the spotlight, the usage rights and a venue must be secured. These are the first financial obligations the producer—or community theater organization—shoulders. Depending on the location, the duration of use and the production rights, the cost can range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more, ahead of any prop, costume or production crew expense. For The Producers, costuming is tricky given a big production number and the fact that each supporting actor will likely play several roles. Some costumes will need to be rented, others sewn and others pulled together from community theater closets. In creating the set design, TIP must take into account that there will be only two days available to build it on site in Drake Park’s public space. Due to multiple scene locations in The Producers, the stage will require several backdrops.
The People Behind Theater in the Park
Funds are primarily allotted for sets, props and costumes, production crews, plus TIP is committed to paying its actors. As with most community theater productions, volunteers round out the crew by filling day-of-show roles.
While the productions now pay for themselves, Switzer initially considered the two-day performance each year to be a gift to the community. “You need a passion for it. I get to work with great people like Michelle and the actors,” Switzer said, adding that he and Mejaski have worked together since the beginning of TIP as a theater company.
How Auditions Bring the Theater in the Park Cast Together
Cut to three months prior to curtain call—this is when auditions begin. Some seasoned thespians arrive with confidence, ready to belt out their 32 bars of a show tune with ease, while other community members walk in tentatively, looking around for some piece of courage to grasp. For the most part, they know they are about to give up most of their evenings for the next three months to bring entertainment to the community.
Why Bend’s Community Takes the Stage
As with the production team, all actors involved in bringing this musical to life have day jobs. Among the group auditioning for this year’s cast are a high school math teacher, library public service specialist, hospital pharmacy technician, human resources manager and a moving company laborer.
The Magic of Opening Night in Drake Park
On opening night, lucky audience members will scan the stage as the actors make their entrances. In the words of The Producers character Franz Liebkind, “Gentlemen, it is magic time.” This moment is what keeps the cast and crew going when their workdays are long and rehearsals are never-ending. Mejaski sums it up for all of them: “I do this for the love of theater and my friends, and my Bend community.”
Theater in the Park Presents The Producers on August 14-15, 2026 | Drake Park, Bend
Find tickets and event information at theaterbend.com.
Theater in the Park Bend: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Theater in the Park in Bend?
Theater in the Park is an annual outdoor musical theater performance from Lay It Out Events that transforms Bend’s Drake Park into a 1,000-seat theater for two nights each August.
Where is Theater in the Park held?
Theater in the Park takes place at Drake Park in Bend.
What production is Theater in the Park presenting?
Theater in the Park presents The Producers on August 14 and 15, 2026.
How long does it take to prepare for Theater in the Park?
Planning begins eight months before curtain call. Auditions begin three months before curtain call.
How many people does Theater in the Park accommodate?
Theater in the Park transforms Drake Park into a 1,000-seat theater.
Where can I find more information about Theater in the Park?
