Robert Lee, Texas · Coke County

Amphitheater
Restoration
Project

Bringing live performance back to the heart of West Texas

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01 The Mission

Restoring a Community Landmark

In 1978, Wilson and Lucile Bryan built Mountain Creek Amphitheater to stage "Ole Coke County—Home of the Rabbit Twisters," a musical pageant celebrating our county's heritage. For years, the hillside filled with music and community.

When the pageant era faded, the amphitheater fell quiet—until 2005, when a group of local musicians and volunteers rehabilitated the venue and brought live performance back to the stage. In time, the amphitheater fell silent once more. A later group removed structures that had become unsafe, but nothing rose in their place.

Now, we're working to restore it again—this time as a premium local venue for live music, outdoor cinema, theatrical performances, and cultural events. We're bringing the rustic character of West Texas back to life.

15 Rows of seating to restore
½ Acre of vegetation clearing
1 Community coming together
02 Project Phases

The Road Ahead

In Progress

Phase 1: Site Clearing & Preparation (FCCLA Project)

Removing invasive vegetation including prickly pear cactus, mesquite trees, and cedar growth. Preparing the grounds for restoration work.

  • Vegetation removal and treatment
  • Site assessment and documentation
  • Debris clearing
Upcoming

Phase 2: Seating Restoration (FCCLA Project)

Refurbishing 15 rows of metal bench seating with proper surface preparation, rust treatment, and weather-resistant coatings.

  • Surface preparation and rust removal
  • Primer and paint application
  • Structural repairs as needed
Planned

Phase 3: Perimeter, Access & Control Room

Rebuilding the perimeter fence, improving accessibility, and constructing a control room with an old western storefront facade to house audio and technical operations.

  • Perimeter fencing installation
  • ADA accessibility improvements
  • Control room construction
  • Western facade design and build
Planned

Phase 4: Stage & Technical Infrastructure

Building out the performance area with stage improvements, audio infrastructure, and essential technical systems.

  • Stage structure and decking
  • Power distribution
  • Audio system installation
Future

Phase 5: Amenities & Final Touches

Adding comfort features, lighting, signage, and the finishing touches that transform the space into a true venue.

  • Pathway and access improvements
  • Lighting design
  • Aesthetic enhancements
03 Progress Updates

The Work So Far

Each work session documented. Click on any date to see the full gallery and notes.

04

Through the Decades

From its founding in 1978 to present day, the amphitheater has been a gathering place for our community. Explore historical photographs that capture the spirit of this venue across the generations.

View Historical Photos →

Have photos to share?

All decades welcome. Include any details you remember: approximate year, event name, or people pictured.