Our mission is to transform the Fort Walla Walla Amphitheater into a nationally recognized regional theater, while enhancing the cultural identity of Walla Walla through locally produced performing arts events and accessible educational opportunities.
Why the Amphitheater at Fort Walla Walla?
Although the amphitheater has fallen into disrepair since its abandonment in 2014, Gerald Mosman's original design remains exceptional. Its intimacy, size, and ability to capture an authentic local experience, deeply rooted in the geography of our area, are noteworthy.
There is abundant local nostalgia for the space, which makes it deserving of a new life within the community. Renovating, reusing, and expanding upon the existing footprint would cost significantly less than building a new, similar structure.
The Amphitheater at Fort Walla Walla Park already embodies these site design principles that are employed by outdoor theater designers worldwide.
Genius loci: Literally the spirit of a place. What is it about this site that is unique and special?
Place Making: The craft of creating a distinctive, recognizable and memorable social space.
Character: The character of the landscape is often a sum of its components and context.
Topography: The shape of terrain and direction of the slopes.
Circulation: The movement of people and vehicles to enter through the site.
Experiential design: Designing to anticipate the full experience of the visitor.
Amphitheater at Fort Walla Walla
Tuachan Summer Theater, UT
Our initial $24 million plan has been scaled back to a $6 million plan that enables us to establish a site with the necessary ADA improvements and technical requirements to resume operations. Our goal is to have an opening day in the summer of 2026 to commemorate its semicentennial year.
The Walla Walla Summer Theater is poised to transform the local arts scene through its dynamic vision and strategic initiatives. By establishing itself in a beautifully refurbished venue that reflects the authentic charm of the region, the theater creates a unique and inviting atmosphere for audiences. The organization’s commitment to curating productions of the highest caliber, featuring both seasoned professionals and talented guest artists, ensures a diverse and high-quality performance lineup that appeals to a broad range of theatergoers.
Furthermore, with a dedicated focus on investing in local youth through training programs and opportunities, the theater not only nurtures the next generation of artists but also strengthens community ties and cultivates a loyal local following. This comprehensive approach positions the Walla Walla Summer Theater to build significantly on past accomplishments, attracting tens of thousands of locals and visitors each year. By doing so, the theater not only enhances the cultural landscape but also contributes to the local economy, making it an indispensable asset to the community.
Our intention is to create an ongoing summer stock theater company and educational program that will employ and serve the broader community of artists and patrons, as well as local youth and families, by providing entertainment and educational opportunities for locals, regional visitors, and beyond.