Tent Theatre is a professional summer stock theatre program operated by the Department of Theatre and Dance at Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. It was established in 1963 and originally staged productions under a large canvas tent. Since 2022, performances have taken place in the John Goodman Amphitheatre, a permanent open-air venue on the university campus.
Tent Theatre began in the summer of 1963 as a seasonal theatre company run by Missouri State University (then Southwest Missouri State). Early productions were performed under a traditional circus-style tent.
In 2021, the university broke ground on a permanent outdoor theatre space, named the John Goodman Amphitheatre after the actor and university alumnus who contributed to the funding. The venue officially opened in fall 2022, replacing the tent format after nearly 60 years.
The John Goodman Amphitheatre is located in the Judith Enyeart Reynolds Arts Park, adjacent to Craig Hall on the Missouri State campus. It features a permanent stage, high-quality lighting and sound systems, and seating for 350 people. The seating is removable, allowing flexibility for different productions.
Tent Theatre typically presents three shows during its summer season, which runs from mid-June to late July.
Tent Theatre is operated by Missouri State UniversityâÂÂs Department of Theatre and Dance and serves as a professional development experience for students and guest artists.
Tent Theatre is supported by university departments, local sponsors, and private donors. Proceeds from premium seating contribute to student scholarships. The theatre also partners with media sponsors such as KY3 and KSMU Radio.
The John Goodman Amphitheatre is ADA-compliant and includes accessible seating, parking, and restrooms. Updates and alternate access routes are provided when campus construction affects traffic flow.