We understand that a lot can change before the summer. However, shows on the scale of our Summer Concert Series require many months of planning and hefty deposits well before the events themselves. We need to inform the talent as well as our lighting, sound, and staging partners as soon as possible.

Capacity restrictions vary by each county’s level of risk. Currently, Hudson Gardens is able to operate at level blue (caution). This means 50% capacity or 250 people for outdoor events and entertainment. If our county moved to the lowest level (protect our neighbors) by summer, we could have 50% capacity or 500 patrons at a concert. For comparison, our usual capacity is 3,250. You can find more information at the COVID-19 Dial Dashboard.

Shows on the scale of our Summer Concert Series are not financially viable without the knowledge that we can sell tickets near our usual capacity. Fixed costs include talent fees for internationally-renowned performers, professional audio, lighting, security, concert staffing, and much more. The uncertainty of capacity restrictions creates the risk that we would not be able to cover those fixed costs.

We’re glad you brought this up! Our goal is to find premiere entertainment that works within the current restrictions. We’re happy to announce that Central City Opera is bringing their annual summer festival to Hudson Gardens this summer. Learn more about how you can attend open-air performances of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Carousel and the Italian masterpiece, Rigoletto.