Originally conceived on April 21, 1950 as a not-for-profit theatrical organization, the Springfield Municipal Opera Association transformed a 55-acre wheat field into an outdoor amphitheater.

The Springfield community responded with such enthusiasm that the Muni was able to rebuild its facility and return to the lake site theater in 1965.

Muni bravely staged its first four-production season in 1972; You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, 1776, The Most Happy Fella, The Sound of Music and attendance jumped to over 17,000.

In 2006, the Muni welcomed its one millionth patron during the run of Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida with a special celebration on July 29.

It is believed to be the largest organization of this type in the country that is completely self-supporting, dependent neither on grants nor tax dollars.