August 18, 2021

MEDORA MUSICAL

3422 Chateau Rd, Medora, ND 58645

“The Medora Musical is a musical revue that produced each summer at the open-air Burning Hills Amphitheater near Medora, North Dakota, US.” Wikipedia

While researching what to do in the area one recommendation kept appearing: see the Medora Musical. Of course, as a lover of live theater and musicals, I had to check out what the hype was about.

It was suggested to have dinner before the show at the Pitchfork Steak Fondue, located just steps from the amphitheater. The buffet style meal had steak, baked potato, baked beans, cole slaw, fruit, garlic toast, and brownie. You ate at picnic tables in an open air pavilion while a one-man band entertained. It wasn’t fine dining, but the atmosphere and food set a fun tone for the rest of the evening.

The views from the area above the amphitheater were breath-taking, and since I had left my camera at home, I returned the next afternoon to try to capture the vistas.

For a theater lover, the amphitheater itself was quite a sight. It has been here for years, but has been updated over time to where now it is a state-of-the-art theater. The staff really have putting on this show down to a science, from getting people in and out, souvenirs and concessions, and the show itself.

The show is the story of Medora told through stories, music and dancing. The cast included Chet Wollan and Annie Freres as hosts, a singing/dancing ensemble called The Burning Hills Singers, and a six piece band called The Coal Diggers Band. All were very professional entertainers from all over the country (including Jessica Bradish from Des Moines, Iowa, in the ensemble). The second act included a performance by the Chicago Boyz acrobatic team, who did some amazing stunts. I remember seeing them perform on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” a few years ago.

Overall, the show was fast moving and very entertaining. I can see why it is recommended everywhere as one of the things you need to do in Medora.