Locust Shade Amphitheater Shows Offer Music, Magic and More!

Mark your calendars for our summer amphitheater shows at the Jean C. Smith Amphitheater at Locust Shade Park, where we present family-friendly entertainment for all to enjoy. This summer we’ve got music, puppets, reptiles, and even some magic! We invite you to join us for a show the whole family is sure to love.

The amphitheater has bench seating that is protected by a shade structure with additional seating available on the gently sloping grass area. Please note that picnic-style foods and soft beverages are permitted in the amphitheater area, but alcoholic beverages are not permitted.  Videotaping of any performance is also strictly forbidden.

Ticket Pricing

* General Admission (ages 2 yrs and up) – $6/per person
* Group Rate (10 people or more) – $5.50/per person
* Purchase and pay onsite at the amphitheater entrance

For more information or group reservations, call 703-792-8780.

2026 Jean C. Smith Amphitheater Schedule

Reptile World

Thursday, June 18, 10:30 am

Thursday, July 9, 10:30 am

Thursday, August 6, 10:30 am

The Reptile World program was designed to give audiences the opportunity to meet an interesting selection of live, large, colorful, and gentle reptiles from all over the world. Audiences enjoy discovering what reptiles are, what makes them different from birds and mammals, and how important they are in our environment. Many of the myths and misconceptions are dispelled, instilling a greater appreciation, and understanding of these fascinating reptiles.

Musical Performances

Saturday, June 20, 12 pm – Heritage Village Project - African Drum Circle/Storytelling - Free

Saturday, July 11, 12 pm – Heritage Kingdom Music Citizens Concert - Summer Gospel Concert - Free

Saturday, August 1*, 10:30 am – Harmony Studios – (*rain date if needed - August 2)

Heritage Village Project is a 501(c3) Not for profit organization which partners with individuals and organizations to educate and promote African Arts and Culture. This community cultural event will give the audience a taste of African drumming, movement, singing, storytelling and opportunity for crowd participation.

Kingdom Music Citizens is a talented ensemble of young musicians ranging from ages 4 - 14 specializing in jazz, gospel and reggae and afro centric genres. Directed by accomplished musician Eric Ofei, the band has performed at several community and corporate events thrilling and inspiring audiences with their dynamic performances.

Harmony Studios is a competition/elite group of kids who perform year-round. The students are amazingly talented and intend to do a Broadway style review show “through the decades.” The shows features drama, dance, music and visual arts.

Magic Variety Show – Funmakers – Zig Zag: The Kid’s Party Magician

Thursday, July 2, 10:30 am

Thursday, July 23, 10:30 am

Funmakers presents Zig Zag’s hilarious and spectacular Magic Variety Show. Expect puppetry, music, magic and lots of laughs!

Puppet Shows

Thursday, July 16, 10:30 am – Blue Sky Puppets: The Three Not So Little Pigs

Thursday, July 30, 10:30 am – Blue Sky Puppets: Rufus

Show Overviews:

The Three (not so) Little Pigs was originally produced in 1988 as a 4th birthday party celebration for Blue Sky Puppet Theatre founders Judith and Michael's son Tristan. At that time, he was having squabbles with his two sisters which frustrated his parents. He was also afraid of wolves, although he loved the story of the Three Little Pigs. They decided to write a story that reflected a parent's frustration at sibling problems, which made the wolf non-threatening, a vegetarian uninterested in pigs. Their friends loved the show and suggested we produce it for public viewing. It has since become one of their most popular shows, filled with audience participation and humor aimed at all ages.

Rufus is a fast-paced and funny story about acceptance and inclusion with an adorable main character. For ages 2-10.