Zilker Hillside Theater

The Zilker Hillside Theater is committed to creating accessible opportunities for all members of the community to engage and collaborate in the performing arts. Performances and events are always free and open to the public. Seasons run March through October.

The Zilker Hillside Theater is managed by the Dougherty Arts Center through the Division of Museums & Cultural Programs.

Upcoming Events

An image of a person wearing a crown of leaves with their back to the viewer and silhouettes of people behind the person along with the text 'The City of Austin in coordination with Austin Shakespeare, presents Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Free Shakespeare'

Austin Shakespeare presents Julius Caesar

Thursday – Sunday, May 15-29, 2025
8pm
Free

Austin Shakespeare returns to the Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theatre with a fierce and fearless production of JULIUS CAESAR, running May 15–25, Thursdays – Sundays at 8 pm. In a dynamic twist on Shakespeare’s gripping political drama, most of the conspirators will be played by women, turning the timeless tale of ambition, betrayal, and revolution on its head. A cast of 18 actors perform this new, modern production, marking the company’s 38th year to present Shakespeare under the stars on a spring evening, across from Barton Springs Pool.

FAQ

Q. Are animals allowed?

A. Animals are prohibited on the hillside during performances of Zilker Theatre Production's Summer Musical. (Service animals are exempt from this policy). Any non-service animal, leashed or unleashed that is on the hillside premise during the hours of 6pm-11pm, Thursday- Sunday will be asked to leave.

Q. Can I save a spot by putting a blanket down really early?

A. The City of Austin strongly discourages leaving blankets unattended on the hillside at any time, especially prior to 6pm. Doing so damages the turf, as well as the root structure of our beautiful heritage trees. In addition, the City of Austin is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items left unattended.

Q. What kind of chairs can I bring to watch the show?

A. Chairs under 28” are allowed in the main seating area. Taller chairs are allowed at the top of The Hill and in our ADA seating area.

Q. Can I bring alcohol to the park?

A. Alcohol is not allowed and will be not be consumed, distributed or tolerated at the Zilker Hillside Theater. You are more than welcome to bring non alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the show, but please be aware that glass and styrofoam are prohibited in Zilker Park.

Q. Is the theater wheel chair accessible?

A. Accessible parking is located directly behind the theater in the parking lot. Zilker Hillside Theater is wheel chair accessible. Accessible seating is located at the front of the stage. If you require access to this seating space, please see one of COA staff members, and we will ensure your needs are addressed.

Q. I lost my wallet and can’t find it. Do you have a lost and found?

A. We do not keep valuables on site and all lost items are turned into the main office located on 200. South Lamar, the following business day. The phone number is 512-974-6700.

Large outdoor theater with black back wall and grass seating area

Rentals

During the months of March, September and October, organizations may request to rent the Zilker Hillside Theater for their public performance or special event. The outdoor venue’s large stage, ample lighting capability, amenities, and location (next to Barton Springs Pool) make it the perfect spot for your next dance recital, symphony or cultural event. The facility includes:

2 large indoor dressing rooms
Back stage restrooms and storage.
Optional mobile stage flats
Backstage loading and build areas

Visit the image gallery site for more facility photos and information.

Please Note: Zilker Hillside Theater is closed to applications for 2025.

2026 Rental Requests and Inquiries

Applications for 2026 rentals will open at 10:00am on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

Download the 2026 Rental Request Form (PDF, 365kb) to your device. Please read the Facility User Guide at the beginning of the document to understand the policies and expectations of our space. 
Complete the document, save to your device, and email it as an attachment to ZHTInfo@austintexas.gov.
Applications will be considered in the order they are received. 
A completed application does not guarantee or confirm a reservation.
Any applications sent prior to May 1 will be considered at a later date.

2026 Rental Requests will be accepted until March 1, 2026.

To set up a time to tour the facility, email james.byers@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-4020.