Tuachan Amphitheater stage with red rock canyon backdrop

When the sun bathes Tuacahn Amphitheatre in its evening light, the red mountains surrounding this magical performance center literally sparkle and glow. There's a calming spirit in the shadow of ancient sandstone slabs that appear crowded around a precious gem in the desert. It's like nature herself designed the most awe-inspiring theater setting imaginable, and Tuacahn has been bringing world-class entertainment to this natural wonder for over 25 years.

Tuacahn celebrates 'Season of a Million Memories' for 2022

This is the 28th season at the amphitheater located at the mouth of Padre Canyon. And 2022 celebrates 'A Season of a Million Memories' with old and new shows to commemorate milestones. Over 1 million tickets have been sold in the amphitheater since 1995!

Being outdoors enhances the theater-going experience. The moon and stars grace evening performances while the red rocks glow like torches on stage. Every seat in the 2,003-seat house has a gorgeous view of the action and the natural world around it. Bring a light jacket when temperatures drop a bit at night. Summers are hot in St. George; dress accordingly.

Tuacahn Summer 2022 line-up

Annie - In honor of Tuacahn's 25th anniversary in 2019, 'Annie' is a special presentation. The production ran at Tuacahn twice before, once in 1997 and again in 2003.

School of Rock - Brand new to Tuacahn, this musical, based on the hit movie, follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. Completely disinterested in academic work, Dewey decides to create his own curriculum, transforming his class into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band.

Million Dollar Quartet - Brand new to Tuacahn, this Tony Award-winning musical is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast - Back by popular demand from 2018, Disney's Beauty and the Beast is returning to Tuacahn for its summer season!

Tuachan performance of Beauty and the Beast
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is returning to Tuacahn for its summer season! Photo courtesy Tuacahn.org

Tuacahn Amphitheatre amenities

Guests can arrive early to enjoy the gift shop and a variety of dining options. Choose from the outdoor grill or the Garden Terrace Restaurant. Be sure to make reservations for the restaurant by calling (435) 652-3218. The gift shop presents one-of-a-kind creations from local artisans and theater memorabilia you will be proud to display.

Pre-ordering Intermission Treats will enhance your Tuacahn experience. Due to the increased popularity of this service, they sell out fast. Advanced online purchase is suggested. Online pre-orders are offered up to 10 hours before your performance. A variety of delicious options are delivered to your seats at intermission.

There is also a concession stand for snacks, drinks, and even ice cream during intermission. Don't forget to bring cash as card readers can be spotty in the canyon.

Tuacahn has a clear bag policy for all events. Clear bags allow staff to quickly assess that attendees aren't bringing in contraband. This expedites entry to the venue and enhances public safety. Small clutch bags and wallets smaller than 4.5" x 6.5" are also permitted without being clear.

The Tuacahn High School for the Arts

Tuacahn is also home to the Tuacahn High School for the Arts. This special performing arts high school serves students in grades 9-12 with professional training in dance, music, and theater. Students receive a comprehensive education combining rigorous academics with intensive arts training.

The school's graduates have gone on to perform on Broadway, in national tours, and at prestigious universities across the country. Throughout the year, the high school presents its own productions, giving audiences the chance to see tomorrow's stars today.

Saturday Market at Tuacahn

Every Saturday morning from March through December, Tuacahn hosts a vibrant Saturday Market. This popular community gathering features:

  • Local produce and artisanal foods
  • Handmade crafts and artwork
  • Live music performances
  • Food trucks and breakfast options
  • Family-friendly activities

The market runs from 9 AM to 1 PM and is free to attend. It's a wonderful way to experience the Tuacahn campus during daylight hours and support local vendors.

Special Events and Concerts

Beyond the summer Broadway season, Tuacahn hosts a variety of special events throughout the year:

  • Celebrity Concert Series: Features nationally recognized recording artists
  • Christmas in the Canyon: A beloved holiday tradition with music, lights, and festive performances
  • Comedy nights: Stand-up performances from touring comedians
  • Community events: Graduation ceremonies, corporate events, and private functions

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Tuacahn is located in Ivins, Utah, just 10 miles northwest of St. George. The drive through Ivins offers stunning red rock views, and the entrance to the canyon is well-marked. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before showtime to allow for parking and getting to your seats.

Parking: Free parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly for popular shows. VIP parking is available for an additional fee and is located closer to the amphitheater entrance.

What to Wear: Dress is casual, but remember that desert evenings can be cool, even in summer. Bring layers! Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be walking on uneven terrain.

Accessibility: Tuacahn is wheelchair accessible with designated seating areas. Golf cart shuttles are available from the parking area to the amphitheater entrance for those who need assistance.

Ticket Information

Tickets can be purchased online at tuacahn.org, by phone at (435) 652-3300, or at the box office. Prices vary by show and seating section, with discounts available for:

  • Groups of 20 or more
  • Students with valid ID
  • Military personnel
  • Season ticket packages

The best seats tend to sell out quickly, especially for weekend performances, so advance booking is highly recommended.

The Tuacahn Experience

What makes Tuacahn truly special isn't just the professional quality of the productions or the stunning natural setting – it's the combination of both that creates pure magic. As the sun sets behind the canyon walls and the stage lights come up, there's a moment of transformation where nature and art merge into something extraordinary.

Performers often speak about the unique energy they feel performing at Tuacahn. The natural acoustics of the canyon, the vast star-filled sky overhead, and the engaged audiences create an atmosphere unlike any traditional theater. It's not uncommon to see shooting stars during a performance or to hear the distant call of desert wildlife adding to the ambiance.

Impact on the Community

Tuacahn has become a cornerstone of Southern Utah's cultural landscape, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually and contributing significantly to the local economy. The venue employs hundreds of people during its season, from performers and technicians to hospitality staff and educators.

The center also provides educational opportunities through camps, workshops, and masterclasses, nurturing the next generation of performers and theater enthusiasts. Many local children get their first taste of live theater at Tuacahn, creating lifelong memories and perhaps inspiring future careers in the arts.

Looking Ahead

As Tuacahn celebrates its "Season of a Million Memories," it continues to evolve and grow. Plans for the future include expanded educational programs, facility improvements, and bringing even more diverse entertainment options to Southern Utah.

The venue has proven that world-class theater can thrive in the desert, and that sometimes the most unlikely settings create the most unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a lifelong theater fan or someone who's never seen a live musical, Tuacahn offers something special – a chance to experience the magic of live performance in one of nature's most spectacular theaters.

Make Your Own Memories

Don't miss your chance to be part of Tuacahn's next million memories. With multiple shows running in repertory throughout the summer season, you can easily see several productions during a Southern Utah vacation. Many visitors make Tuacahn a annual tradition, returning each summer to see what new magic unfolds in the canyon.

For tickets and more information, visit tuacahn.org or call the box office at (435) 652-3300. Come discover why Tuacahn has been called "one of the world's most spectacular theater settings" and create your own unforgettable memories under the stars.