If you are from St. Louis, you have probably heard of The Muny. The Muny, located in Forest Park in St Louis, MO, is the largest outdoor theater in the nation. Every summer, The Muny plays host to seven broadway-quality shows, featuring local actors as well as some big name broadway/television and film stars. They also have a teen program and do a variety of smaller performances throughout the year. The Muny is an incredible place; here are a few of the reasons you should make a stop there this summer.

1. The Location

The Muny is located in the beautiful Forest Park. Surrounded by The Jewel Box, the St. Louis Zoo, walking trails, and incredible fountains, The Muny is just one of the incredible things to do in Forest Park. You can make a day out of your Muny visit completely in Forest Park by checking out the zoo or the art museum, hitting up one of the many incredible restaurants around the area, and then heading to the show!

2. The Talent

Each year, people from all around St. Louis, the state of Missouri, and even the nation come out to audition for the Muny’s summer season. Each year the ensembles get better and better. This doesn’t even include the big name lead performers they have each year!

3. The Big Name performers

Each season, the Muny gets some really big name people to play in their lead roles. These people are some pretty big names on Broadway, film, and television. Some of the Muny’s most notable alum include: Richard Harris (Dumbledore), Sarah Jessica Parker, Bernadette Peters, Uzo Aduba, and Phyllis Smith, just to name a few.

4. The Production Design

The sets and just the artistic design in general are jaw dropping. The picture above is from this past summer’s production of Beauty and the Beast and it was taken at the end of Be Our Guest. That picture doesn’t do it justice. There was a huge ensemble, sparklers, glitter, and fireworks. I cried. The Muny pulls out all the stops in terms of design and set.

5. The Beauty

The Muny is the one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited. The architecture and the courtyards are stunning. The sun sets over the stage at night and its awe-striking. You can even take full advantage of the beauty and get married there!

6.The Atmosphere

The Muny is such a full loving place full of joy. They offer family friendly shows and have an incredible staff. You walk right in knowing that you’re about to have an incredible time.