Play on the Grounds
Immerse yourself in an entertaining theatrical experience.
Overview
Join us for a series of staged readings of live theatrical plays. These readings are the perfect marriage of the beauty of Montalvo with the excitement of live theatre in its purest form.
2026 Program
Enjoy our 2026 Play on the Ground season, featuring three compelling outdoor productions. We kick things off with TEA FOR THREE: Lady Bird, Pat & Betty, a witty, sly, and deeply moving script that explores the hopes, fears, and loves of Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon, and Betty Ford. Next up is RIPCORD, a comedy about two older women, the prickly Abby and the cheerful Marilyn, who are forced to share a room in a senior living facility. What begins as a clash of personalities turns into a series of escalating, hilarious bets, culminating in a skydiving challenge to see who can make the other feel fear first. We close the season with Murder Mystery (TBA). A mystery is coming to the stage, though its name remains shrouded in secrecy. Stay tuned for the big reveal. It’ll be to die for.
TEA FOR THREE: Lady Bird, Pat & Betty
Showtimes:
Wed. May 20 | 6:00 pm
Thur. May 21 | 6:00 pm
Fri. MaY 22 | 6:00 pm
RIPCORD
Showtimes:
Wed. JuN. 17 | 6:00 pm
Thur. JuN. 18 | 6:00 pm
Fri. Jun. 19 | 6:00 pm
Murder Mystery (TBA)
Showtimes:
Wed. Aug. 26 | 6:00 pm
Thur. Aug. 27 | 6:00 pm
Fri. Aug. 28 | 6:00 pm
About
Unlike a full production, a staged reading strips theatrical convention down to the bare essentials of engaging storytelling: performers and text. Audiences can expect riveting stories read by actors with minimal staging. On a gorgeous summer evening at Montalvo, take your seat and immerse yourselves in an unforgettable analog experience!
