OUR MISSION
Sustaining the legacy of serving the entire Austin community through the magic of performing while inspiring the artists of today and tomorrow.
Zilker Theatre Productions, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides award-winning, free admission entertainment, boasts an audience of over 45,000 annually. ZTP is dedicated to the celebration and preservation of that unique America art form–the Broadway musical–by mounting large-scale musical productions at the Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater in Austin’s beautiful Zilker Park.
Our Story
Originally created as a project of the Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department in 1959, the Zilker Summer Musical continues to provide high-quality musical theater entertainment to Central Texans and visitors from around the world. Zilker Theatre Productions (formerly known as “Friends of the Summer Musical”) has been dedicated since its inception in 1987 to preserving this special gift to Austin audiences by producing the Zilker Summer Musical as well as sponsoring a variety of other community outreach and youth training programs.
Award-Winning Productions
Produce one of the longest running, award-winning, free outdoor musicals in the country since 1959.
Educational Opportunities
Free audition workshops, pre-show onstage educational opportunities literacy partnerships, and internships.
Zilker Hillside Preservation
City of Austin partnership to preserve Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater–nearly $1MM of improvements made since 2008!
Local Youth Theater Programs
High-quality resources like our vast costume stock, lighting and sound equipment, as well as warehouse space made available to local schools and arts organizations.
Celebrating Community Under the Texas Stars
Since 1959 people in Austin have come to love the experience of sitting on The Hillside and enjoying a free, high-quality musical. The annual ZTP musicals draws in crowds of 45,000 people from Central Texas and beyond. Our cast, crew, staff, and sponsors work together to bring audiences shows that celebrate the spirit of community in a Broadway-grade production in one of Austin’s most beautiful parks, right under the Texas stars.
Give to ZTP
Zilker Theatre Productions has been celebrating the magic of musical theatre since 1959. It is through the generosity of individuals like you that this tradition continues. Please be generous when considering your donation online, by mail, or during the show’s intermission.
Become a Corporate Sponsor
If you are part of a business or organization that might be interested in working with us, there are many benefits to sponsoring Zilker Theatre Productions.
It is the policy of Zilker Theatre Productions (ZTP) that there shall be no discrimination against any individual or group of individuals on the basis of age, gender, race, physical disability, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, or any other grounds impermissible under state or federal laws and regulations.
Further it is the policy of ZTP that there shall be no sexual harassment against any individual or group of individuals and that activities that might create a hostile work environment for any individual or group of individuals are strictly prohibited.
All activities conducted by or on behalf of ZTP shall be in compliance with applicable state and federal laws regarding discrimination and harassment. This policy will be strictly adhered to by all Board members, volunteers, and contractors, and any violation of this policy shall be cause for involuntary termination of the party from further association with ZTP.
This policy shall be posted on the ZTP website and a copy kept with the corporate records.
Mission:
Zilker Theatre Productions is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all artists, staff, audiences, and volunteers. We believe that the inclusion of individuals from all backgrounds and identities strengthens our organization and enriches the artistic experience. We are dedicated to providing equal opportunities and eliminating discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Values:
- Diversity: We value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals from all backgrounds bring to our organization.
- Equity: We strive to create a level playing field where everyone has the opportunity to participate and succeed.
- Inclusion: We foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Scope:
This policy applies to all aspects of Zilker Theatre Productions’ operations, including:
- Recruitment, hiring, and promotion of staff and artists
- Selection of plays and other artistic programming
- Audience development, marketing, and community outreach
- Composition of Board of Directors, Advisory Boards, and Committees
- Volunteer opportunities
Accountability:
All staff, artists, board members, and volunteers are responsible for upholding this policy. We will hold ourselves accountable for creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment at Zilker Theatre Productions.
Commitment:
We are committed to making Zilker Theatre Productions a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to our artistic mission and the success of our organization.
This policy is a living document and will be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect the changing needs of our community.
Additionally, we encourage you to provide feedback on this policy and our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Please contact us at info@zilker.org.