Information
Landmark: Sand Hollow State ParkCity: St George
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America
Sand Hollow State Park, St George, USA Utah, North America
The Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater is an outdoor performance venue located in Martinsville, West Virginia.
Visual Characteristics
The amphitheater features a tiered seating area constructed from concrete, with a capacity of approximately 1,500 individuals. The stage is a raised platform with a permanent backdrop structure made of wood and metal. Surrounding the seating area are mature deciduous trees providing natural shade.
Location & Access Logistics
The amphitheater is situated within Memorial Park, located at 1000 Memorial Park Road, Martinsville, WV. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers south of the Martinsville city center. Access is via Memorial Park Road, which connects to State Route 101. Ample parking is available in designated lots adjacent to the park entrance. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is at the intersection of State Route 101 and Elm Street, approximately 800 meters from the amphitheater.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater was constructed in 1978 as part of a city initiative to provide a dedicated space for community events and performances. It was funded through a combination of public funds and a donation from the Hawkins family. The site is located on land that was historically part of a larger municipal park, with the amphitheater integrated into the existing natural landscape.
Key Highlights & Activities
The primary activity is attending scheduled performances, which include concerts, theatrical productions, and community gatherings. Visitors can also utilize the seating area for quiet contemplation or informal group meetings when no events are scheduled. The surrounding park offers walking paths.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available in a separate building near the main park entrance, approximately 150 meters from the amphitheater. Limited shade is provided by the surrounding trees, with no artificial shade structures over the seating. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available. No food vendors are permanently located at the amphitheater; attendees typically bring their own provisions or patronize establishments in the nearby city center.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal lighting for photography of the stage area, late afternoon (approximately 2-3 hours before sunset) is recommended. The most favorable months for attending outdoor events are from May through September, avoiding periods of heavy rainfall or extreme temperatures. There are no tide-dependent considerations for this inland venue.
Facts & Legends
A local anecdote suggests that the acoustics of the amphitheater were intentionally designed to carry sound effectively without amplification, a feature attributed to the specific placement of the stage and the surrounding natural elements. This design principle is said to have been a key consideration during its construction.
Nearby Landmarks
- Martinsville Public Library - 0.8km Northwest
- Memorial Park Playground - 0.2km Southwest
- Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum - 2.1km Northeast
- Old Mill Creek - 1.5km East