01
2023
All in the Timing
Four sharp, surprising comedies by David Ives—and the beginning of our backyard experiment.
Live outdoor theater · Oakland
Compelling stories.
Shared under the stars.
Professional-quality theater with the warmth of a family gathering—imagined, built, and performed by a volunteer community.
✦✦
OAKLAND
UNDER THE STARS
UNDER THE STARS
Est. 2022 · Seats about 60
Backyard Players presents
DraculaA Comedy of Terrors
Bram Stoker's legendary vampire gets a lightning-fast, laugh-out-loud makeover. Expect quick changes, big characters, and one extremely overconfident count.
THUOCT 012026
FRIOCT 022026
SATOCT 032026
THUOCT 082026
FRIOCT 092026
SATOCT 102026
Ticket info →
Six performances · October 1–3 & 8–10
Backyard Stage · Oakland
Our mission
Theater is a relational art form.
Backyard Players is a collective of caring, creative people who imagine, develop, and produce live outdoor theater for family, friends, and the broader community.
Our work is grounded in connection—between performers, stories, and audiences. Through thoughtful communication, we deepen relationships, tell compelling and honest stories, bring people together in shared experience, and have fun. Seriously. That matters.
Founded in 2022 by six friends who met performing musical theater in Oakland, we create one fully staged production each year. Our strength comes not from perfection, but from commitment: to the work, to one another, and to the process.
60seats under the stars
100%volunteer powered
350+neighbors each season
Previously in the backyard
Our productions
One stage. A new world every year.
02
2024
The Play That Goes Wrong
A gloriously accident-prone night of theater, held together by teamwork, timing, and crossed fingers.
03
2025
Almost, Maine
Love, loss, and a little northern magic in nine tender, funny stories under the Oakland stars.
Your night in the backyard
Come as you are.
Bring a layer.
Performances happen outdoors in an intimate private backyard in Oakland's Redwood Heights neighborhood. Seating is general admission and capacity is strictly limited.
01 Doors open before showtime02 Padded chairs, blankets & heat lamps03 Drinks & dessert included
Tickets
Dracula tickets are coming soon.
Our tiny house fills quickly. Email us for ticket information and updates about when sales open.
Email us about tickets →We'll get back to you with the latest ticket information.Keep the lights on
Help this backyard
stay a stage.
We operate entirely on volunteer labor and in-kind support. Ticket revenue covers basic operations; your gift helps with performance rights, sets, costumes, hospitality, insurance, equipment, and the upkeep that keeps our intimate outdoor venue safe and welcoming.
Email us to donate ♥Backyard Players, Inc. is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public-benefit nonprofit. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.