Take It Outside

Area arts groups offer outdoor programming and the best part is, much of it is free

While the indoor theater season takes a summer break, many of Wilmington’s performing arts centers are taking the show outside. Here are a few examples of outdoor programming being offered this summer:

Summer in the Parks, a partnership between The Grand and the City of Wilmington Park’s and Recreation program, resumes June 27. The Grand works with local artists and arts organizations – both performers and visual artists – and invites neighborhood residents, community centers, daycares and summer camp groups to explore engaging artistic content from music, dance, storytelling to crafts and visual arts in Wilmington’s city parks. Summer in the Parks also offers several evening events featuring local musical artists. Find the full schedule at www.TheGrandWilmington.org/Parks

Delaware Shakespeare will present The Tempest at its Summer Festival in Rockford Park. The Summer Festival opens July 15 and continues through July 31. For tickets and performance times, visit www.delshakes.org

The Riverfront Development Corporation will be offering free Thursday night concerts in Tubman-Garrett Park beginning July 7 with Arnold Hurtt & The Funky Factory Band. Performances are 7-8:30pm and continue through Aug. 25. For the full schedule, visit RiverfrontWilm.com

Delaware Theatre Company’s outdoor concerts series returns June 21 and continues through July 27. Five concerts are scheduled, beginning with Jenna Pastuszek in Me, Myself & Barbra. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own seating and snacks. Showtimes are 6:30pm. For tickets and full schedule, visit www.DelawareTheatre.org

OperaDelaware is offering a Pop-Up Opera performance on July 9 (2pm) at Battery Park in Historic New Castle. Admission is free. Visit www.OperaDe.org

Friends of Wilmington Parks is partnering with Delaware State Parks for free concerts on Mondays through Aug. 15 at Rockford Park and Wednesdays through August 17 at the Sugar Bowl Pavilion in Brandywine Park. All shows start a6 6:30pm. Bring a chair or blanket. Food trucks will be on hand and beer and water will be for sale with proceeds benefiting Friends of Wilmington Parks. Visit www.FriendsofWilmingtonParks.org