You might think that the outdoors and live music are two things that don't go together on account of how electronics tend to react when exposed to rain and humidity, but you'd be wrong. There are plenty of outdoor concert venues, some of which may even be close enough that you can walk to them from your home. These outdoor venues are called amphitheaters. If you've never been to one, this article can tell you a little bit about them.

Amphitheaters are essentially stages that are set up outdoors, usually in a permanent location but sometimes in a temporary location for a special event such as a festival. Amphitheater stages are usually semi-protected from the sun and rain by an arched roof that looks like half an eggshell. The audience, however, is usually left to stand under the sky in an area between the stage and a fence. There may or may not be benches or seats for the audience in front of the stage.

Amphitheaters are usually found in parks. In inner city parks, these amphitheaters are usually the location of local outdoor concerts and plays connected to festivals and holidays. People will come from their homes with folding lawn chairs to listen or watch. Amphitheaters are also often found in campgrounds, where they are set up to provide campers with entertainment from local theater and music groups. These amphitheaters tend to be a little more rustic than their inner city counterparts.

Shows that are conducted in amphitheaters cover the same range as shows conducted in normal theaters. It could be a comedy act, a concert by a band or single performer, a play, or even a musical. Amphitheaters may also be used to hold lectures and presentations or as a venue for campaign speeches by local politicians. Consult the parks service website or brochure to see what's on the schedule for your local amphitheater this season.

If you plan go to a show held at an amphitheater, there are a few things you should check before you leave your place. The first is whether there is a charge to see the show, the second is whether there is any permanent seating or if you have to bring your own chair or blanket, and the third is the weather. If rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella, because the show will not be postponed.


Photo example of an amphitheater from The Los Angeles Beat.