O.C. Tanner Summer Concert Series
The O.C. Tanner Amphitheater was built in 1976 by a man named O.C. Tanner. His hope was that the amphitheater would help to strengthen the arts and provide high-quality education to all in Southern Utah. This part of Dixie State University has certainly helped to improve the importance of the arts in the area not only for students, but for all who visit the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater.
The amphitheater’s location and architecture are just two of the reasons that this amphitheater is so different from any other in the world. The background of the stage is the gorgeous red rock that Zion is famous for. The seating of the amphitheater slopes up against a large hill facing the theater, making every seat the best seat in the house. The red rock not only gives a beautiful look to the area, but also an impressive acoustic quality that cannot be found at many open-air amphitheaters. The large, open stage invites guests to feel as though they are a part of the performance.
This incredible theater hosts many events throughout the year, but none are as exciting as the four-month-long summer concert series. This series, which begins in June and ends in September, includes an incredibly extensive variety of musicians, performers, and activities for every guest to enjoy. Residents and locals alike will appreciate the Zion area even more after a visit to the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater.
Trailblazers Summer Concert Series–2017 Season Performances
July 8th, 2017
Rock Fest Featuring The National Parks with Special Guest Many Miles
The National Parks is a band that draws inspiration for their music from their hometown of Zion. Their sound is incredibly eclectic, with a blend of folk, pop, and electronic music. Their unforgettable vocals and instrumental beauty will leave the audience speechless and yearning for more.
Joining The National Parks is another eclectic group, Many Miles. This local group from Southern Utah has been called a blend of The Police, Amy Winehouse, Adele, and The Dave Matthews Band. Their sound is unique, to say the least. This one-of-a-kind show will be the highlight of a trip to the Zion area.
July 22nd, 2017
Sanctuary: The Story of Zion
The unbelievable talent of Sam Payne, Ryan Tilby, Drew and Lacey Williams, and Nic Chamberlain come together to form an incredible performance that celebrates and explains the development of Zion. Sanctuary celebrates the people, activities, and developments that have made Zion such a beautiful place today. This performance will help to educate guests and residents about Zion while making them appreciate the area at the same time.
July 4th, 2017
Collin Raye
The music of Collin Raye has been celebrated since the early nineties. His soothing voice and heartfelt lyrics have earned him ten nominations for best male vocalist, twenty-four top ten records, and sixteen number one hits. The audience will be able to enjoy this well-known star in the intimate setting of The O.C. Tanner Amphitheater. Guests will experience Collin Raye like never before with the red rocks of Utah as his background.
August 11th, 2017
Nathan Pacheco with the Lyceum Orchestra
Nathan Pacheco uses his incredible voice to sample and perform many popular songs from artists like Aaron Copland, Ennio Morricone, Rossini, Puccini, and many others. This classically-trained, vocally moving singer will transport the audience to the days of golden voices. Joining Pacheco will be the Lyceum Orchestra, which is made up of many talented young student musicians. This breathtaking and emotional show is one that will not soon be forgotten.
September 9th, 2017
Zion Matrix “Love Is the Answer” Featuring Aykanna, Supporting Girls on the Run
Guests to this incredible, multifaceted show will enjoy feeling as though they have been taken back to the era where love was all they needed. The distinct and poignant vocals of Aykanna can be enjoyed by the whole family. This music will help audiences feel a connection to not only the land, but also each other. In addition to Aykanna’s music, there will be aerial silk acrobats, a giant, ten-foot dreamcatcher creation, gongs and drums percussion music, and much more. This event will benefit Girls on the Run, which is a non-profit that aims to improve self-esteem in young girls and teach them how to live a happy, healthy lifestyle. This exciting event for a good cause will be one that audiences think about for years to come.
September 29th and 30th, 2017
Zion Canyon Music Festival
For the first time, the Zion Canyon Music Festival will be held at O.C. Tanner Amphitheater. This is the ninth annual Zion Canyon Music Festival, and it has something to offer absolutely everyone. Some of the musical performances will be from funk-rock band Groovement, hip-hop and reggae musician El Dub, The Reals, a group from Southern Utah, country-rock bad boy and Utah local Raven Cain, Utah mixing legend DJ Lex, and more.
As the music plays, guests can enjoy a variety of food vendors, kid’s activities, bounce houses, and many other exciting festivities. This all-inclusive music festival will celebrate the joy of music, bring many different people together, and put a spotlight on the beauty of the Zion area.
Music, Beauty, and New Experiences at O.C. Tanner Amphitheater
The O.C. Tanner Amphitheater’s Summer Concert Series will include many events that should not be missed. The celebration of music, the arts, and the beauty of Zion during the concert series is sure to be a life changing experience. Whether rocking out to The National Parks or dancing along to gongs and drums, the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater has something for everyone. Visitors and residents alike should be sure to make it to at least one performance during the summer. It is sure to be an unforgettable, exciting, and eye-opening experience.