The 2009 summer season at the Leach Amphitheater in downtown Oshkosh marks the first year this facility is being run by the city (the municipal government - specifically, the parks dept). The season was opened the last weekend in May with Waterfest and a weekend-long Irish Fest. Irish Fest was the first show organized by the city, and seemed to have gone quite well - fun, good music, and good weather. I am unsure of attendance and revenue figures, which obviously are significant indicators of success.

Additional summer programming includes music shows by local high school bands, the increasingly popular Brews N Blues, the Golden Dragon Acrobats, a major country act, and several other small programs. What isn't evident is an array of local musical acts or theater shows, despite a healthy local music and theater scene in the Fox Valley. According to the current schedule available on the Leach site, many of the Saturdays are open - nothing scheduled. Information available on the Leach website indicates a dedication to providing local programming, suggesting that this type of programming may be coming.
I have been an advocate for city coordination of this facility since January 2006. According to a Sept 08 post on MainstreetOshkosh.com:
In March of 05, Tony Palmeri and I had spoken at the council meeting in which the residing council members spoke of delusions of grandeur regarding the Leach... We simply requested that the facility serve the taxpayers who funded it, allowing access to local community groups and artists. This didn't happen. Now, it seems, that many are "coming to their senses" and recognizing the importance this fabulous facility can play for our local community - now including those individuals and groups who are eager to organize exciting programming at this facility, but who maybe couldn't afford the $1500+ rental charges previously requested.
I was pleased to see the city take control of the facility, with a focus on bringing in wanted acts, hosting and facilitating local programming, and running a top-notch facility.
I still think the city needs help. As stated in 2008, The Leach provides an amazing opportunity for UW Oshkosh business major interns and UW Oshkosh Marketing interns to work closely with staff on maximizing the use of this facility. Further, Human Services student interns may be able to collaborate with community agencies to expand partnerships in that direction.
I still think the Parks Dept needs help, as stated in 2008:
I second the call by Dr Palmeri for a Leach Advisory Board, and believe that putting the responsibilities on the current Parks Board would accomplish nothing. I would go further and call it an Advisory and Review Board, responsible for ensuring citizen input, participation, and approval of operations. The board should consist of at least one local musician, someone from the local media like Jane Spietz, someone from the local restaurant industry, someone from the university, someone from a local environmental program, a representative with WaterFest, and several others. Most importantly is that this group has the authority to guide and decide.
I think many people are skeptical of and resistant to the notion of the city effectively running this facility. But I also think the city has the capacity and potential to be excellent at operating one of the finer outdoor stages in Northeastern Wisconsin. I think it is time for the "gate keepers" to open the doors for further involvement, assistance, criticism, and promotion. Let's expand the programming, and bring in theatre, bring in Oshkosh area-rooted music acts like the Blueheels, let's try symphonic performances and fine dining meals like Madison's concert in the park, maybe partner with the local dance studios and feature local dance talent, and other ideas that the owners of the facility (Oshkosh residents) have.
Finally, I think everyone in Oshkosh and around the Valley should take a look at the programming available, and check out the facility for yourself. It is a beautiful setting and an amazing donation / contribution to our community.