Perhaps you'll remember publicity of the infamous Diana Ross concert from Central Park in the massive rains - something that even Paul Simon or Garth Brook's recent blow-outs couldn't surpass though you'd never know it by the numbers. One promoter joked there were more people on the Great Lawn, where/when these largest events are held, than in the entire state of South Dakota! It he's right, that would be 700,000! Big events in the Park capture the headlines, but you'll find forms of live entertainment everywhere without the hassling crowds.
When weather's decent, you can't go far without coming across various forms of street entertainers singing, playing music, dancing, juggling or anything for the love of performing and, helping support their incomes through appreciation contributions. While you could quickly go broke assisting them all, let your conscience be your guide whether hearing a favorite song, seeing the extra efforts from raw talent, or the bizarre whackiness which captures your attention in pushing creativeness to new limits. Performers also provide a great cultural exchange often coming from all around the world - some of the more popular ones even selling their own CD's/tapes or goods from their countries; especially the South American Indian groups with their smooth brands of "Inka Jazz".
The Naumberg Bandshell, located in the plaza between The Mall and Bethesda Terrace, is one of the Park's original structures obviously where earliest concerts were held. Perhaps you'll wonder what's kept this central attraction not crumbling from the amplified sounds generated from directly behind where the majority of the Park's concerts are held today. SUMMER STAGE is a series which sometimes can have up to three shows a week featuring various forms of music and ethnic/cultural entertainment. If you're in the Park during the summer, check the area as event calendars are always posted. The majority of concerts are by donation admission, though they'll frequently slip in headlining groups and charge for special fundraisers. Unless you're one of those that has to "see" what you hear, save the admission cost and enjoy the freebie from a bench outside...plus, the views are better.
Other entertainment within the Park takes place at the Delacorte Theatre, an outdoor amphitheatre presenting a series of Opera and Shakespeare performances with admission fees, and free puppet shows at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre. Both are located on the southwest corner of the Great Lawn.
FOR OFFICIAL PARK PERFORMANCES - the larger the production, the earlier you'll need to arrive for seating/space; Great Lawn events often not opening until 6-hours before curtain. I've only done one...with a staff member and 18 of our kids. Free passes to Disney's premier of Pocahontas. What an experience for them, but with the long boring wait, immense crowds and confusions, I'll take them to South Dakota before we do that again!