Vandalia dedicates new amphitheater

Just in time for the summer concert season, the Vandalia Art Park on Alkaline Springs Road welcomed a new addition to their ever-growing landscape. May 22 marked the grand opening of an amphitheater which will be used for musical performances, both local and visiting. 

The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by members of the Vandalia City Council and several hundred residents. They were treated to an inaugural concert by the Michelle Robinson Band, with a short intermission performance by the Vandalia Youth Theater. Several food trucks were also on hand to add to the casual family-friendly atmosphere.

Councilwoman Candice Farst officially named the new structure the Bill Jergens Amphitheater, in honor of the late local arts patron whose company, R. B. Jergens Contractors, assisted in making the theater a reality.

Vandalia Media Coordinator Rich Hopkins acted as MC for the festivities. He pointed out that the theater was first conceptualized in 2020 as a venue for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents. The project was completed one piece at a time, including the addition of a new driveway to make access to the park easier. Some of the money to fund construction of the band shell and stage came in the form of a grant from the State of Ohio.

The theater in the park already has a full slate of activities for its first season. Hopkins noted that there are concerts scheduled for one Thursday evening each month beginning in June. This is in addition to other events that are already on the calendar. One upcoming attraction of note is the USAF Band of Flight—Flight One group, which will be presenting “Stars, Stripes and Songs” on June 19.

The Bill Jergens Amphitheater is located in the Vandalia Art Park, 250 E. Alkaline Springs Road. For rental information and a schedule of upcoming events, visit the Vandalia Parks and Recreation Department at vandaliaohio.org. You can also check their Facebook page for updates, or call them at 937.415.2340.