It was designed to seat over 8,000 persons. It was built and maintained by the War Department in its administration of the park system of the District of Columbia, while performances had to receive the approval of the Office of Public Buildings and Grounds. While the Federal government supports the stage, including such areas as lighting, policing, and the management of tickets, other expenses fall upon the company producing the event. Its first director was Col. W. H. Harts, Superintendent of Parks in Washington.