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Join the Tradition: “Bring It On: The Musical” Lights Up Zilker Park This Summer

Pack a blanket, bring the squad, and see why Austinites have cheered for Zilker summer musicals since 1959

Bring It On: The Musical 2025
"Bring It On: The Musical" (photo by M Luna photography, courtesy of Zilker Theatre Productions)

Back for its 66th year, Zilker Theatre Productions brings high-flying energy and community cheer to the Zilker Hillside Theater with “Bring It On: The Musical.” Running Thursday through Sunday nights through August 16, this high-energy show celebrates one of Austin’s most cherished summer traditions — free, family-friendly outdoor theater under the stars.

Directed by Anna Skidis and featuring artistic direction by Amy Oxley, “Bring It On: The Musical” bursts with dynamic choreography and an original story by Tony Award-winner Jeff Whitty, with music and lyrics from Broadway icons Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tom Kitt, and Amanda Green. Set in the competitive world of high school cheerleading, the story follows Campbell as she navigates friendships, rivalries, and big dreams after a sudden school transfer.

"Bring It On: The Musical" Photo by M Luna photography, courtesy of Zilker Theatre Productions
Ella Harper as Campbell in “Bring It On: The Musical” (Photo by M Luna photography, courtesy of Zilker Theatre Productions)

Join the TRIBEZA team on August 2nd

TRIBEZA encourages readers to come out and experience the magic — especially on Saturday, August 2, when editor-in-chief, Heidi Okla, makes a special walk-on cameo. It’s a perfect night to mix and mingle with the magazine team while you soak in Austin’s creative spirit and support local talent.

Before the show, bring the family on stage at 7 p.m. for the “Be a Star Saturday” experience. Kids of all ages can interact with actors and learn some choreography featured in the show.

Audience waiting for the big summer musical at the Zilker Hillside Theatre.
Audience waiting for the big summer musical at the Zilker Hillside Theatre. (Photo by Heidi Okla)

Know before you go — “Bring It On: The Musical”

  • While admission to the show is free and there are no tickets required, donations are strongly encouraged. You can take cash to drop in a passed bucket during intermission, or make a donation online.
  • The show starts at 8:15 p.m., and you can arrive as early as 6 p.m. to put blankets or low-backed chairs (under 28 inches) out to save your spot. Pro tip: place your blankets, then take a dip in the cold waters of Barton Springs Pool before the show.
  • New this year: Paid parking begins at 5 p.m. Fees help support the show’s production costs and are $20 for GA parking in the polo field or $100 for VIP spots in the top lot. Parking can be paid with credit/debit cards only.
  • Rideshare drop-off is at Stratford & Andrew Zilker Rd. CapMetro Routes 3, 4, 30, 663 can also get you to the park.
  • Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the H-E-B Hillside Market, and you are also free to bring your own picnic (no glass).
  • No pets; no smoking.
"Newsies", a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo by Taylor Smith)
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“Newsies”, a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo by Taylor Smith)
"Fiorello", a 1980s Zilker Theatre Productions performance (photo courtesy of ZTP)
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“Fiorello”, a 1980s Zilker Theatre Productions performance (photo courtesy of ZTP)
"Shrek the Musical", a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
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“Shrek the Musical”, a past Zilker Theatre Productions summer musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
"Annie Get Your Gun", a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
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“Annie Get Your Gun”, a past Zilker Theatre Productions summer musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
"All Shook Up", a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
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“All Shook Up”, a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo courtesy of ZTP)
"Matilda the Musical," a past Zilker Theatre Productions musical (photo by Taylor Smith)
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“Matilda the Musical,” a past Zilker Theatre Productions summer show. (Photo by Taylor Smith)
Legally Blonde The Musical from Zilker Theatre Productions (photo by Peggy Keelan)
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Legally Blonde The Musical from Zilker Theatre Productions (photo by Peggy Keelan)

An Austin tradition since 1959

Founded in 1959, Zilker Theatre Productions has grown from a city program to a beloved nonprofit serving over 66,000 audience members annually — all at no cost. “This production is about joy, connection and community,” says director Skidis. “We’re proud to keep the tradition alive.”

To learn more, visit zilker.org.

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