John Anson Ford Ampitheater

Christine Wetherill Stevenson, heiress to a paint fortune, envisioned a grand stage nestled in the Cahuenga Pass. Her dream became a reality in 1920 with the John Anson Ford Ampitheater, then known as the Pilgrimage Theatre. The John Anson Ford Ampitheater was specifically designed for Stevenson’s play, “The Pilgrimage Play”. The rugged beauty of the pass formed a dramatic backdrop. The original wooden structure hosted performances every summer until a devastating fire swept through in 1929. Undeterred, a new amphitheater rose from the ashes in 1931. This time, it was built from poured concrete, designed to resemble the gates of Jerusalem. The John Anson Ford Ampitheater continued its tradition of hosting the Pilgrimage Play, interrupted only by World War II. In 1941, the land became part of Los Angeles County. A 1964 lawsuit, citing the play’s religious nature, brought an end to its run at the amphitheater. The venue then took on the name John Anson Ford Ampitheater to honor a late County Supervisor and his dedication to the arts. Ford had a rich legacy of supporting artistic endeavors. He helped found the LA County Arts Commission. He championed the Music Center’s construction. He also spearheaded the county’s acquisition of Descanso Gardens. The John Anson Ford Ampitheater, with its 1,200 seats, continued to be a vibrant cultural hub. A smaller, 87-seat indoor theater was added in 1971. The amphitheater hosted diverse performances, from Shakespeare to jazz to dance. It even became a popular punk rock venue in the late 1980s, featuring bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Today, the John Anson Ford Ampitheater thrives under the management of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. It continues to present a rich tapestry of performances. This reflects the diverse communities that make up Los Angeles County.