Outdoor Theatre

In 2017, the Institute of Outdoor Theatre transitioned into its new partnership and management relationship with SETC. SETC is maintaining and building upon services that have long been valued by the outdoor theatre community, including Summer and Outdoor Theatre Auditions.

The groundbreaking National Conference on Outdoor Theatre brings together renowned artists, directors, and enthusiasts from across the nation to explore the captivating world of open-air performances. This year's Conference will be October 8–11, 2025 at The Stephen Foster Story in Bardstown, Kentucky, with additional programming in Louisville, Kentucky, provided by the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival.

Text reading, "Save the Date: National Conference on Outdoor Theatre, October 8–11, 2025. Bardstown, Kentucky."

Each fall, theatre leaders from all backgrounds convene for a multi-day networking event where conference attendees trade insights and explore new concepts in design/technology, management and artistic approach.

Logo for the Institute of Outdoor Theatre. A brown tree with green foliage on top, with large brown text underneath that reads "Outdoor Theatre"