Everyone has a memorable story about attending a performance at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts or the Robin Hood Dell—“the Mann” and “the Dell” to their many patrons. Lavishly illustrated with more than 200 images, meticulously researched, and engagingly written by historian Jack McCarthy, A Century of Music Under the Stars reveals the fascinating inside story of Philadelphia’s premier outdoor concert venues on the eve of the Mann’s 50th Anniversary.

The Dell, which opened in 1930, and the Mann, which opened in 1976, were initially built as summer homes for The Philadelphia Orchestra. As McCarthy fondly recounts, the Mann Center evolved to host the world’s top artists across many musical genres. Contemporary audiences have gathered on the Great Lawn for concerts by performers including James Taylor, The Roots, Phish, Diana Ross, John Legend, and others. 

The venues, however, are more than just the music; they are about the beautiful natural setting, communal atmosphere, and spectacular view of the Philadelphia skyline. A Century of Music Under the Stars is a revealing and celebratory look back at beloved Philadelphia cultural icons. This informative and illuminating history will provide happy memories for generations of music lovers.

Jack McCarthy is a longtime Philadelphia archivist and historian who has held leadership positions at several area historical institutions and directed a number of major archives and public history projects. He has written extensively on the history of Philadelphia music, industry in Philadelphia, and Northeast Philadelphia. He is the author of In The Cradle Of Industry And Liberty: A History of Manufacturing in Philadelphia numerous articles for the Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia and was a major contributor to The Philadelphia Music Book: Sounds of a City. He has served as consulting archivist and historian for The Philadelphia Orchestra, the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, and Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project.