Zilker Hillside Theater
Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater
A beloved outdoor theatrical venue, located in heart of Austin’s Zilker Park near the picturesque Barton Springs. The Zilker Hillside Theater has been home to engaging events, shows, and concerts for over 50 years. The Hillside is host to many exciting annual events such as Shakespeare in the Park, Zilker Theatre Productions’ Summer Musical, and The South Asian New Year.
For more information, please visit AustinTexas.gov.
ZTP's Hillside Tips Checklist
Weather Policy
In the event of inclement weather on show nights, we will post an update on social media. The ZTP team believes that the show must go on for our audience members, and we will endeavor to present our show until the last possible moment. Thank you for your understanding if we are forced to cancel a performance because of actor and audience safety, weather, or city ordinance.
Theater Information & Protocol
Zilker Theatre Productions and the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) appreciate your compliance with ZTP musical rules. If you have any questions when you arrive to The Hillside, our volunteers at the Info Table are available to assist.
Pets
Pets are not allowed. (Except service dogs) Due to the large number of people in close quarters, as well as distractions for your fellow play-goers and the actors, we ask that you please leave your pets at home.
Food & Drink
Feel free to bring a picnic basket and/or cooler. No smoking, alcohol or glass containers allowed in the park area by law. A variety of ice cold drinks and snacks can be purchased from ZTP’s Concession Stand – proceeds benefit the production.
Prohibited Items
No smoking, alcohol or glass containers allowed in the park area by law. Please help us keep The Hillside clean by putting your trash and recycling in the available containers – and packing as much out with you as you can.
Seating
Blankets
Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on The Hillside and enjoy the show. Blankets may be put down on The Hillside at any time, including before the show. However, please note that ZTP is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
In order to make the most efficient use of The Hillside, we encourage you to place blankets as close together as possible. And please take up only as much room as you actually need! Austin in known for its friendliness so if you end up having space left over, consider offering to share your blanket with those in less fortunate viewing spots.
*Plastic tarps are not allowed.
Lawn Chairs
Full-height lawn chairs are only allowed in the ADA section or at the top of The Hillside as they block the view of other patrons. Please be respectful of patrons on blankets when placing full height chairs.
Chair Rental
ZTP is offers low profile (28″) stadium chairs for a donation of $5 per seat. These chairs can be placed anywhere on the hillside for the duration of our performance. Please look for our rental booth and bring a photo ID. Chairs are available while supplies last.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible seating is located at the front of the stage. If you require access to this seating space, please see one of our front of house staff or COA staff members, and we will ensure your needs are accommodated.
Reserved Spaces
ZTP often needs to block off spaces for our donors and cast members’ families. Please respect these marked areas.
No Sit Zone
A clear walkway on the second level must be maintained at all times.
Strobe Lighting
Please be aware that strobe lighting is used in some ZTP presentations. Please contact us for strobe lighting information for a particular show.
ZTP's Hillside Tips Checklist
Getting to The Hillside
Questions about getting to The Hillside? Visit our transportation information page.