Ramona Amphitheatre News

March Newsletter

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 16:00:45 GMT

I'll guide you to amazing places

February in the Foothills: A Season of Legends & Legacy

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 20:00:58 GMT

February in the Foothills: A Season of Legends & Legacy

The air is crisp in the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley, but things are heating up at the Ramona Bowl. As we march toward our 103rd Season , we are busy preparing the canyon for a year that celebrates the resiliency, culture, and community spirit that have defined us since 1923.

Whether you are here for the drama of California’s Official Outdoor Play, the rhythm of a summer night, or to lend a hand behind the scenes, there is a place for you in our story.

The 103rd Season of Ramona

The Legend Returns: Witness the longest-running outdoor drama in the United States, a living history of the Indigenous, Hispanic, and settler cultures that built our state.

A Natural Stage: Experience the stunning Spanish Colonial architecture and the breathtaking backdrop of our natural canyon.

Tickets on Sale: Secure your seat in our historic 5,000-seat amphitheatre to be part of this century-old tradition.

⭐ SUMMER JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT BETTER. ⭐

The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre's 2026 Concerts Under the Stars series begins March 7th, 2026 — and you're going to want a ticket.

Great music. Stunning mountain views. A century-old outdoor stage built for nights exactly like this. Whether you go General Admission or treat yourself to a VIP experience, one thing is guaranteed: you'll leave wishing the night never ended.

�� Live music the way it was meant to be heard — outdoors, under the stars, at one of Southern California's most beloved venues.

Tickets on sale now — don't miss out!

Pre-sale: $15

Door: $20

VIP Pass: $160 - VIP Pre-concert meet & greet with the bands, preferred parking, and seating (parking not included).

VIP + PARKING: $230 - VIP Pre-concert meet & greet with the bands, preferred parking, and seating. (online & ticketing fees apply)This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

Volunteer & Be Part of the Magic!

Be Part of the Story: Join our crew of over 375 members & help bring California’s Official Outdoor Play to life.

The Ramona Bowl was built by the hands of this community, and it is the people of the valley who keep our 100-year history alive. To make our 103rd season a success, we are looking for passionate volunteers to join our vibrant team.

Concert Crew: Help us host our "Concerts Under the Stars" and ensure every guest has a magical experience in our natural canyon.

The 103rd Season of Ramona is Officially Here!

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:43:57 GMT

California's Official Outdoor Play

Since 1923, under the towering granite cliffs of a natural amphitheater in Hemet, California, something extraordinary has taken place each spring: the telling of a story that captures the soul of California itself. Ramona is not merely a theatrical production—it is a living monument to the Indigenous peoples, Hispanic communities, and early settlers whose collision of cultures forged the California we know today.

As the longest-running outdoor drama in the United States and California's Official Outdoor Play, Ramona stands as an unparalleled artistic and educational institution. For over a century, this production has brought Helen Hunt Jackson's novel to visceral life, immersing audiences in what she called "A Century of Dishonor"—the painful truths of displacement, cultural erasure, and the enduring resilience of those who survived.

Today, under the direction of our first Native American director, Ramona has evolved into something even more powerful: a work of authentic storytelling that honors Indigenous voices while examining the very foundations upon which California—and our nation—was built.

A Experience Unlike Any Other

To witness Ramona is to be enveloped by history itself. The natural amphitheater becomes the stage. The thundering of horses' hooves echoes off ancient granite walls. Gunfire cracks through the evening air. Authentic music and dance transport audiences across time and cultures. More than 14,000 guests annually experience this multi-sensory journey through joy and anguish, love and loss, conflict and survival—emerging with a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry that is California's heritage.

Timely and Relevant

The significance of Ramona has never been more evident. This January, the documentary Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego will premiere at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, bringing renewed attention to this cultural treasure and its continued relevance in contemporary discussions of Indigenous representation, cultural preservation, and hist orical truth-telling.

World Premier Alert: 'Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego' Debuts at Palm Springs International Film Festival 2026 – Uncovering California's Indigenous Legacy

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:12:23 GMT

The Story Behind the Screen: From Fiction to Forgotten Truths

As the home of America's oldest outdoor play, the Ramona Bowl Amphitheater is thrilled to announce the world premiere of the captivating documentary Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego. Set to screen on January 3, 2026, at the prestigious Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF), this film dives deep into the real history behind our beloved Ramona Pageant. Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Jason Sklaver, it stars our very own Eli Santana – the punk musician and actor who brings Alessandro to life on our stage.

Every spring, thousands flock to Hemet, California, for the Ramona Pageant – a century-old tradition held in our natural 5,000-seat amphitheater. Inspired by Helen Hunt Jackson's 1884 novel Ramona, the play has shaped California's cultural identity while highlighting injustices against Native Americans. But what lies beneath the romance? Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego follows Eli Santana as he uncovers the harrowing real events, including the 1883 murder of Cahuilla man Juan Diego by settler Sam Temple.

Filmed during our 100th anniversary in 2023, the documentary reveals astonishing discoveries: a rare wax cylinder recording of Temple's confession, found in museum archives, and the re-recording of Ramona Lubo's lost testimony by her great-granddaughter. Eli, channeling his hardcore punk roots from bands like Holy Grail and Huntress, composes "The Ballad of Juan Diego" – a powerful song that reframes the myth for modern audiences. From remote mountain crime scenes with Cahuilla Bird Singers to heartfelt gatherings with descendants, this 1-hour 59-minute feature blends history, music, and personal identity.

Meet the Visionary Team

Jason Sklaver, an Emmy-nominated director with credits including ESPN's 30 for 30 "Revolution in the Ring" and the Emmy-nominated Fear of a Black Quarterback, brings his expertise to this project. "The centenary of the play provided an entry point into the larger Ramona story," Sklaver shares in his director's statement. Produced by Tawney Sklaver, with cinematography by Kyle Safieh and editing by Peregrine Beckman, the film features key cast members like Alice Holmes, Duane Minard, and Dydia DeLyser.

Eli Santana's journey is at the heart: As Alessandro in our pageant, he explores his Native heritage, listening to Temple's chilling audio while the actor portraying him plays the role. The result? A film that honors Indigenous voices, from Bird Songs sung for millennia to contemporary calls for justice.

Why This Premiere Matters for Ramona Bowl Fans

This documentary isn't just a movie – it's an extension of the Ramona Pageant experience. Shot amid our rehearsals and performances, it spotlights the cultural significance of our amphitheater and the ongoing story of Native resilience. As we gear up for our 103rd season on April 18-19, 25-26, and May 2-3, 2026, Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego reminds us why this tale endures: to keep Native American history alive until oppression is truly past.

Follow the film's journey on Instagram and Facebook @RamonaAndTheBalladOfJuanDiego, and tag us @RamonaBowl for your Ramona stories. Let's celebrate California's rich history together!

#RamonaPageant #JuanDiegoBallad #PSIFF2026 #IndigenousHistory #EliSantana #CaliforniaDocumentary #HemetEvents #NativeAmericanStories

Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Completes Major Improvement: Lower Parking Lot Resurfaced

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:15:29 GMT

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the successful completion of a major improvement project: the resurfacing and repair of the lower section of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre parking lot , adjacent to the Little Theatre.

This is more than just new asphalt; it's a huge step forward in improving accessibility and safety for everyone who visits our historic venue. We know how much this was needed, and seeing it finished is a massive win for the entire community.

A True Team Victory

Seeing this project finalized is a testament to the dedication of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Board of Directors and our incredible community partners. This was a challenging task, and the credit for seeing it through belongs squarely to them.

We owe our deepest thanks to several key individuals and organizations who made this possible:

Lori VanArsdale , whose guidance and persistent efforts were essential.
The Gosch Family , for their unmeasurable and unwavering support of the Ramona Bowl and the Hemet community.
Al Cordova , for his crucial contributions to getting the work done.

Board President Joe Grindstaff and Ramona Bowl acting CEO Chuck Champion also provided the crucial momentum needed to bring this long-standing priority to completion.

As President Grindstaff noted, “This project has been a priority for the Board for many years, and seeing it completed is a major milestone for the future of the Bowl. The new lower lot surface drastically improves the experience for our visitors.”

We are simply thrilled to have this area ready for use! Whether you're joining us for our upcoming spooky fun or preparing for the next season of Ramona, you can count on a smoother, safer arrival.

Thank you to everyone who supports the Ramona Bowl. Your continued enthusiasm allows us to preserve this landmark and keep improving the visitor experience!

Press Release - 4/22/2025

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:46:16 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ramona Bowl Appoints Charles Ford Champion II as Interim CEO, Partners with Paladin 360 LLC for Strategic Growth

HEMET, CA – April 22, 2025 – The Ramona Bowl Association today announced the appointment of Charles Ford Champion II, Managing Partner of Paladin 360, as its Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr. Champion brings extensive experience in turnaround situations and strategic scaling, demonstrated in prior C-Level roles at ProElite Inc. and Youbet.Com Inc., where he significantly increased enterprise value. His background also includes leadership positions at major media companies like the Chicago Sun-Times Co.

Joining him is the Paladin 360 team, including Operating Partner Gary Sproule, a C-Level executive with a strong record in financial and operational improvements. His experience includes growing cash flow at Mobile Messenger and Youbet.Com Inc., along with leadership roles at Disney Interactive Studios, WhatsHotNow.com, 76 Products, and UNOCAL, where he scaled businesses and enhanced market values.

Mr. Sproule is leading the development of a five-year strategic plan with the Ramona Bowl Board of Directors, encompassing a multi-year capital program, incorporating a comprehensive audience development campaign, and diversifying the event programming.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome the team from Paladin 360 to help chart the next chapter for the Ramona Bowl," said Joe Grindstaff, Board President. "Chuck's financial leadership and Gary's strategic vision are invaluable as we pursue our goals for the future."

This partnership with Paladin 360 underscores the Ramona Bowl’s commitment to long-term sustainability and growth. Their combined expertise will be crucial in realizing a more dynamic Ramona Bowl experience.

About the Ramona Bowl: T he Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre in Hemet, CA, is a historic outdoor venue famous for the annual Ramona Pageant. For over a century, it has been a significant cultural landmark representing the longest running outdoor drama in the nation and California’s official outdoor play.

About Paladin 360: Paladin 360 is a strategic management and consulting firm focused on creating sustainable value through strategic growth, financial improvement, and operational excellence across diverse sectors.

Contact:

Nancy Bradshaw, Chief Marketing Officer

nbradshaw@paladin360.com

(951) 665-8405

Helen Hunt Jackson - Inspiring A Nation

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:24:13 GMT

Helen Hunt Jackson - Inspiring A Nation

by Nancy Bradshaw

In that vast, sweeping theater of the American West, where the stark, unyielding beauty of the landscape confronted the raw, often brutal, realities of a nation’s westward march, there emerged a voice. A singular voice, marked by an unwavering conviction, a voice utterly devoted to the cause of a people too often unseen, unheard. That voice belonged to Helen Hunt Jackson, a woman whose own life, etched with the deep scars of personal loss, would ultimately find its truest purpose in her passionate, unyielding advocacy for the Native American people. Her very being seemed to resonate with a profound empathy for their plight.

Born Helen Maria Fiske in 1830, in the quiet, intellectual enclave of Amherst, Massachusetts, she was a product of her time, steeped in the rich, vibrant currents of New England thought. Yet, life, as it often does, dealt her a series of cruel, unrelenting blows. The untimely loss of her first husband, Edward Hunt, and then the heart-rending deaths of her two sons, cast a long, somber shadow, a profound grief that, in time, would forge within her a steely resolve. It was as if, from the very ashes of her own profound sorrow, she found a burning, almost incandescent, empathy for the suffering of others, a suffering she would soon witness on a far grander scale.

Her journey westward, a quest for solace and the restorative balm of the crisp Colorado air, proved to be a transformative experience. What she witnessed there, however, was not the idealized, romanticized vision of the frontier, but a stark, unvarnished tableau of injustice. The systematic dispossession of Native American lands, the broken treaties, the callous, almost indifferent disregard for human dignity—these were the realities that seized her conscience, that would not, could not, be ignored. Her heart, it seemed, had found its true north in the defense of these marginalized souls.

And so, she took up her pen, not as a weapon of destruction, but as a tool of truth, a finely honed instrument of revelation. In “A Century of Dishonor,” she laid bare the grim, unconscionable record of the United States government’s dealings with the Native American tribes, a damning indictment of broken promises and betrayed trust. It was a work of meticulous research, a passionate plea for justice, and a clarion call to the nation’s conscience, fueled by her deep and abiding commitment to these first peoples of the land.

Then came “Ramona,” a novel, a work of fiction, yet a powerful, poignant testament to the plight of the Mission Indians of Southern California. These Mission Indians, a collective term for the Native American tribes profoundly influenced by the Spanish missions established from the 18th to the early 19th centuries, included the Chumash, Tongva, Luiseño, Kumeyaay, Cahuilla, Serrano, and Cupeño. These tribes, compelled into mission life, endured cultural and social upheaval, their traditional ways disrupted, their lives forever altered. Helen Hunt Jackson, with her unwavering focus, sought to give voice to their silent suffering.

In 1883, Jackson, appointed by the Interior Department, embarked on an investigation into the conditions of these Mission Indians, collaborating with Abbott Kinney. Her travels through Riverside and San Diego counties revealed the stark, undeniable realities of poverty and the devastating loss of land, particularly among the former Gabrieliño, Luiseño, and Diegueño/Kumeyaay groups. This firsthand experience, this immersion in the lives of those she sought to defend with such fierce dedication, provided vital, irrefutable material for her later works, most notably, “Ramona.” Her commitment was not from a distance, but born of direct observation and a profound connection to the individuals she encountered.

The novel “Ramona” was profoundly inspired by her interactions with these tribes and a specific, tragic event involving the Cahuilla. The story of a Cahuilla woman and her husband, whose 1883 murder by a white man following a dispute over a horse, became a poignant, unforgettable catalyst. These events inspired Jackson to craft a narrative that brought to light the injustices faced by Native Americans. In the novel, the character Alessandro, Ramona’s husband, is from the Luiseño tribe, specifically from Temecula, reflecting their struggles with land dispossession and the relentless encroachment of settlers. At the novel’s conclusion, Ramona finds refuge with the Cahuilla tribe, further emphasizing their role in the narrative. Through this fictional tale, Jackson sought to awaken the nation’s heart to the very real anguish of these communities.

The novel, set in the post-Mexican-American War Southern California, was intended to evoke sympathy for Native Americans, much like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” did for the enslaved African Americans. While the Luiseño tribe is central through Alessandro, the Cahuilla’s role is tied to the real-life inspiration and the novel’s conclusion. “Ramona” achieved remarkable commercial success, being reprinted over 300 times and boosting Southern California tourism as readers sought out locations from the book. Yet, for Jackson, the true measure of its success lay in its potential to stir compassion and ignite a demand for justice for the people to whom she had so completely dedicated her efforts.

However, while it raised awareness, it did not immediately translate into policy changes, with many readers focusing on the romantic aspects rather than the political message. Jackson’s work, including her report on the Mission Indians, influenced later reform groups like the Indian Rights Association, leaving a lasting impact on Native American advocacy. The description of the play as a “Romeo and Juliet that is set in the Wild Wild West” effectively encapsulates the blend of a timeless love story with a specific and dramatic historical context, explaining its enduring power.

The transition of “Ramona” from the written page to the outdoor stage occurred in 1923, thanks to the vision of Garnet Holme. Holme not only adapted the novel into a play but also took on the role of the original director and selected the very location for its performance: the natural amphitheater known as the Ramona Bowl in Hemet. This choice of an outdoor setting was crucial, as it allowed for a grand spectacle that mirrored the expansive landscapes of early California, providing an immersive experience for the audience. The premiere of “The Ramona Pageant” on April 13, 1923, in Hemet marked the beginning of an annual tradition that has, with very few exceptions due to significant historical events, continued uninterrupted for over a century. This annual performance stands as a testament to the enduring resonance of Jackson’s heartfelt narrative.

After decades of captivating audiences and establishing itself as a significant cultural event in California, “The Ramona Pageant” received official recognition from the state government in 1993. This designation as the official State Outdoor Play of California formally acknowledged the play’s profound and lasting contribution to the state’s cultural heritage. It signified that the production was not just a local tradition but a representation of California’s history and artistic spirit on a statewide level.

And remarkably, in the unfolding years, a testament to the enduring power of her story and the long arc of history, the annual telling of “Ramona,” now in its one hundred and second season, would see a Native American, Duane Minard of Paiute/Yurok descent, take the directorial helm for the very first time. One hundred and two years after Helen Hunt Jackson’s passing, whose life was so profoundly dedicated to illuminating the struggles and humanity of the Native American people, the circle seems to gently close. It is as if her tireless efforts, her unwavering commitment, continue to ripple through time, finally allowing a voice from within the very communities she championed to guide the telling of their story on this very stage. It is a moment imbued with profound significance, a quiet triumph of understanding and representation. Beyond the annual outdoor production, the story of “Ramona” has also inspired numerous movie adaptations, song adaptations, and even tourist attractions, demonstrating its pervasive and enduring influence on popular culture.

Helen Hunt Jackson, a writer who understood the power of words to move hearts and change minds, faced resistance but persevered. Her legacy is not measured in victories won in her lifetime, but in the enduring power of her voice, a voice that spoke with unwavering conviction on behalf of those who were so often silenced. She reminded a nation that its pursuit of progress could not come at the expense of its humanity, a principle that lay at the very core of her devoted advocacy. And in doing so, she carved her place in the American story, a testament to the enduring power of one person’s unwavering commitment to justice.

It is a story that reminds us that even in the face of great adversity and against powerful odds, one person, with pen in hand and a heart ablaze with empathy, can indeed make a difference, a difference that can resonate across generations, even a century later

The Elder Blessing Scene by Duane Minard

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:08:29 GMT

The Elder Blessing Scene
by Duane Minard, Artistic Director,

102nd Season of "Ramona"

The Elder Blessing Scene, as it has been named ever since I first got involved in the Ramona Pageant in 1999, has always had a special place in my heart. The pageantry and beauty that countless audience members have witnessed and enjoyed are magical. Not surprising to a person like me who grew up and lived on an Indian Reservation in Bishop, California. I am a Paiute/Yurok Native American and have been dancing and singing since I was seven years old. And I knew the secret of that scene when I first saw it.

The same feelings that the audiences feel, I have had my whole life. It’s the music, songs, and dances coming together from the beat of the “big” drum to the movement of the dancers with the beat and the songs. Most of the dances are what are called Pow Wow style dances. We have Grass Dancers, Fancy Shawl, and Hoop dancers moving to the sound of the heavy drumbeats. These dances have been handed down, danced, and re-imagined over the past 100 years or more. Today, these dances provide a sense of pride for those who participate in them. They give hurting people purpose and provide healing and physical exercise for our bodies. They provide calm and clear minds for those who need that. So, it’s not the name of the dance that is important or that makes the dance important. It’s the transition of the dancer connecting to the beat and singing that makes the “dance” matter. It’s hard to pinpoint the origin of each dance or song. Native people have shared and reshaped Pow Wow dances and songs for a hundred-plus years.

The important thing to remember about this scene is that it is a celebration and sharing of past and present Native culture to the world. And letting the world determine their worth. And if the audience’s reactions are any measure of the songs and dancing value. The answer is priceless. Please enjoy the sights and sounds of this event and remember to thank the dancers and singers. That is a Native tradition, too.

Duane Minard Interview on The Stephen Savage Show

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:14:45 GMT

The Stephen Savage Show Interview of Duane Minard

Tune to the Stephen Savage Show! Welcoming New Co-Host Nicole Hughes and Featuring Duane Minard of "Ramona"!

Get ready for an exciting episode of the Stephen Savage Show ! This installment marks a special occasion as Stephen proudly introduces his new co-host, Nicole Hughes ! Be sure to tune in and welcome her to the show.

But that's not all! Stephen and Nicole will be welcoming a very special guest into the studio: Duane Minard , a significant contributor to the Native Voices Theater and the esteemed artistic director for California's Official State Play, "Ramona."

Listeners might know that Stephen Savage himself is the proud author of a brand new version of the historic play, "Ramona." Join the conversation as Stephen and Duane delve into the important work of the Native Voices Theater and shine a spotlight on the enduring legacy of "Ramona," which is entering its remarkable 102nd season this April and May.

Don't miss this engaging discussion about Native American voices in theater and the continued relevance of this iconic California story. Tune in to the Stephen Savage Show to hear firsthand from Duane Minard about the history and significance of "Ramona"!

Duane & Elias Join the Joey English Show

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 18:51:03 GMT

Don't Miss Duane Minard and Eli Santana on the JoeyEnglish Radio Show! Get the Inside Scoop on the 102nd Season of "Ramona"!

The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Segment - April 8, 2025

Hemet and surrounding areas, mark your calendars! You won't want to miss an exclusive interview with two key figures behind the iconic "Ramona" outdoor play, right here on the JoeyEnglish radio show !

Tune in to hear from Duane Minard , the artistic director of the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre and the first Native American to hold this prestigious role, and Eli Santana (Alessandro) , the talented Native American actor reprising his starring role in this year's production.

Get ready for an engaging conversation where Duane and Eli will offer insights into the 102nd season of this historic play. Learn about the significance of "Ramona," based on the powerful novel by Helen Hunt Jackson and rooted in a true story. Did you know that Helen Hunt Jackson will be receiving her star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars this Wednesday, April 16th? This adds another layer of significance to this year's production!

This season marks Eli's return to the lead role, a part that Duane himself has also played in the past. With Duane's impressive 17-year involvement with the play and a cast of 200 dedicated individuals, you're guaranteed a spectacular performance. Discover why "Ramona" holds the distinguished title of America's longest-running outdoor drama and the official outdoor play for the state of California.

LISTEN TO THE COMPLETE SHOW FOR DETAILS OF SUBJECTS DISCUSSED IN THIS INTERVIEW!

Ready to experience the magic of "Ramona" live? Catch the performances at the RAMONA BOWL AMPHITHEATRE , located at 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, Hemet, CA. 92544 on the following dates:

April 26 & 27
May 3 & 4
May 10 & 11
Plus a special 4th Grade Performance

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit their website at www.ramonabowl.com or call them directly at (951) 658-3111 .

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to hear directly from Duane Minard and Eli Santana on the JoeyEnglish radio show before experiencing the unforgettable performance of "Ramona"! Tune in for all the details!

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 20:49:10 GMT

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

Hemet, CA (January 19, 2025): At the Ramona President's Gala on January 18th, 2025, the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre was thrilled to unveil the talented cast for the 102nd season of "Ramona" and celebrate a historic milestone. For the first time ever, California's official outdoor play and the longest running outdoor play in the nation will be led by a Native American director, Duane Minard.

Introducing the 2025 Cast

A new generation of actors will bring the story of "Ramona" to life:

Ramona: Shirley Casillas
Alessandro: Eli Santana
Señora Moreno: Kathi Anderson
Don Felipe: Jeffrey Noriega
Juan Canito: Kristofer James
Marda: Joey Mercado
Margarita: Victoria Shockey
Dolores: Kasiah Cherland
Salvedierra: Frank Siebke
Luigo: Drake Rogers
Gaspara: Derk Rodgers
Ysidro: Ricky Luna
Aunt Ri: Laura Cherland
Jefferson: Bret Cherland
Joe: Ben Cherland
Story Teller: Maddine Jiminez
Ancient Mara: Anita Bielma
Farrar: Dan Ferguson

A New Era for "Ramona"

Duane Minard, a seasoned actor, playwright, and choreographer of Paiute/Yurok descent, takes the helm as Artistic Director. Minard's deep connection to Native American culture and his extensive experience with "Ramona" as both a performer and Assistant Director promise an authentic and compelling vision for this landmark season.

Experience the Epic Tale

"Ramona" is a sweeping historical romance set in Southern California during the 1850s. The play tells the story of Ramona, a young woman of mixed Native American and Spanish heritage, and Alessandro, a Native American man. Their love story unfolds against a backdrop of cultural clash and injustice, offering a powerful exploration of identity, love, and resilience.

Don't miss this historic season of "Ramona," with its groundbreaking new director and a talented cast bringing new life to this timeless story.

Performance Dates:

April 26th and 27th, 2025
May 3rd and 4th, 2025
May 10th and 11th, 2025

For tickets and information:

The Ramona Bowl Website: https://www.ramonabowl.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ramonabowl/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramonabowlamphitheatre/
X: https://x.com/Ramona_Bowl

Contact:

Joe Grindstaff President, Board of Directors ramona@ramonabowl.com (951) 658-3111

Ramona Volunteer Sign-Up Day

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 19:37:10 GMT

Saturday, January 25

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Courtyard Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre

Are you ready to be a part of something big? The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is looking for volunteers to help with the upcoming production of Ramona!

We are looking for people of all ages and backgrounds to fill a variety of roles, including:

Rock Indians/Village Children
Spanish Dancers
Atmosphere
Children of the Rancho
Costumes/Makeup
Production/Backstage

No experience is necessary, just a willingness to learn and have fun.

Volunteer Sign-Up Day will be held on Saturday, January 25th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Courtyard.

Come meet the Artistic Director, Duane Minard, and learn more about how you can get involved.

Contact:

951-658-3111 or 951-232-5267

Website:

https://www.ramonabowl.com/

We hope to see you there!

About Ramona:

Ramona is a play based on the novel by Helen Hunt Jackson. It tells the story of Ramona, a young woman of Native American and Spanish descent, who falls in love with Alessandro, a Native American man. The play is set in Southern California in the 1800s and is a powerful tale of love, loss, and injustice.

The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is a unique outdoor theatre located in Hemet, California. It is the home of the annual Ramona Pageant, which has been performed every year since 1923.

We hope you'll join us for this exciting event!

"Ramona" Returns for 102nd Season with History-Making Director at the Helm

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 21:03:43 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Ramona" Returns for 102nd Season with History-Making Director at the Helm

Hemet, CA (December 18, 2024): The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is thrilled to announce the 102nd season of the beloved outdoor play "Ramona," with performances held April 26th and 27th, May 3rd and 4th, and 10th and 11th, 2025. This season marks a historic milestone as Duane Minard takes the reins as Artistic Director, becoming the first Native American to lead the production.

A Century of Storytelling Under the Stars

Since 1923, the Ramona Bowl, a magnificent outdoor amphitheater nestled in the hills of Hemet, has hosted the annual production of "Ramona." This open-air play, based on Helen Hunt Jackson's influential novel, breathes life into her characters, transporting audiences back in time to experience the struggles and triumphs of Ramona and Alessandro amidst a backdrop of cultural clash and injustice.

A Legacy of Passion and Dedication

This year, the play welcomes a new vision with Duane Minard, a seasoned actor, playwright, and choreographer of Paiute/Yurok descent. Minard brings a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of Native American culture to "Ramona." His deep personal and professional connection to the story promises to infuse this season with authenticity and fresh perspective. Minard's journey with "Ramona" spans two decades. He has graced the Ramona Bowl stage in various roles, including eight seasons as Ysidro, five seasons as Alessandro, and 15 seasons as Alessandro's stunt double.

He has also been a member of the Redtail Spirit Dancers and Singers and has participated in the Elder Blessing Scene as a singer, dancer, drummer, and actor. His dedication to the production also extends behind the scenes, serving as Assistant Director for three seasons, including the momentous 100th season. "It is an incredible honor to be entrusted with the artistic direction of 'Ramona'," says Minard. "This story holds a special place in my heart, and I am committed to honoring its legacy while bringing a new dimension to its portrayal."

A Life Devoted to Storytelling

Minard's artistic talents extend far beyond the Ramona Bowl. His acting credits include roles in "Where the Summit Meets the Stars," "Lying with Badgers," "Bingo Hall," and "Off the Rails." He is also a prolific playwright, penning numerous California Native-themed plays. Minard has lent his expertise to the Autry, the Heidi Duckler Dance Academy, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival as a choreographer. He is a proud member of the Native Voices Artist Ensemble, where he has contributed as a playwright, stage manager, director, choreographer, and actor since 2016.

Experience the Epic Tale

"Ramona" is a sweeping historical romance set in Southern California during the 1850s. The play tells the story of Ramona, a young woman of mixed Native American and Spanish heritage, and Alessandro, a Native American man. Their love story unfolds against a cultural clash and injustice backdrop, offering a powerful exploration of identity, love, and resilience.

Don't miss this landmark season of "Ramona," with its groundbreaking new director and the timeless tale that has captivated audiences for over a century.

Contact:

Joe Grindstaff

President, Board of Directors

ramona@ramonabowl.com

(951)658-3111

Ramona Amphitheatre News

March Newsletter

I'll guide you to amazing places

February in the Foothills: A Season of Legends & Legacy

February in the Foothills: A Season of Legends & Legacy

The 103rd Season of Ramona

⭐ SUMMER JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT BETTER. ⭐

Volunteer & Be Part of the Magic!

The 103rd Season of Ramona is Officially Here!

California's Official Outdoor Play

A Experience Unlike Any Other

Timely and Relevant

World Premier Alert: 'Ramona and the Ballad of Juan Diego' Debuts at Palm Springs International Film Festival 2026 – Uncovering California's Indigenous Legacy

The Story Behind the Screen: From Fiction to Forgotten Truths

Meet the Visionary Team

Why This Premiere Matters for Ramona Bowl Fans

Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Completes Major Improvement: Lower Parking Lot Resurfaced

Press Release - 4/22/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Helen Hunt Jackson - Inspiring A Nation

Helen Hunt Jackson - Inspiring A Nation

by Nancy Bradshaw

The Elder Blessing Scene by Duane Minard

The Elder Blessing Scene by Duane Minard, Artistic Director,

102nd Season of "Ramona"

Duane Minard Interview on The Stephen Savage Show

The Stephen Savage Show Interview of Duane Minard

Tune to the Stephen Savage Show! Welcoming New Co-Host Nicole Hughes and Featuring Duane Minard of "Ramona"!

Duane & Elias Join the Joey English Show

Don't Miss Duane Minard and Eli Santana on the JoeyEnglish Radio Show! Get the Inside Scoop on the 102nd Season of "Ramona"!

The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Segment - April 8, 2025

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

Ramona Volunteer Sign-Up Day

"Ramona" Returns for 102nd Season with History-Making Director at the Helm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Ramona" Returns for 102nd Season with History-Making Director at the Helm

The Elder Blessing Scene
by Duane Minard, Artistic Director,