What if Broadway’s magic could be found nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains? For over three decades, a small town in North Carolina has been home to a theatrical gem that rivals the bright lights of the big city. Welcome to Banner Elk, where the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has been captivating audiences with its enchanting performances and community spirit. But what makes this mountain stage so special, and how has it managed to bring the glitz and glamour of big-city theatre to the High Country for so long?
Key Takeaways
– Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has brought Broadway-style performances to Banner Elk, North Carolina, for over 30 years.
– Founded by Dr. Janet Barton Speer in 1985, the theatre aims to enrich audiences through high-quality performances.
– The theatre offers a wide range of shows, from big musicals to local plays, attracting over 7,000 guests annually.
– Lees-McRae Summer Theatre integrates professional and community elements, involving local talent and fostering artistic growth.
– The theatre runs an intern and apprenticeship program, providing young artists with hands-on experience and mentorship.
– Planning for each season starts a year in advance, ensuring high-quality productions with meticulous attention to detail.
– The theatre’s funding comes from ticket sales, grants, and donations, keeping ticket prices accessible.
– Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is a cultural hub, contributing to the local economy and uniting the community through art.
A Vision Takes Center Stage
In 1985, Dr. Janet Barton Speer embarked on a mission to bring professional-quality theatre to the picturesque town of Banner Elk. At the request of Lees-McRae College, she founded the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre with a clear vision: to enrich audiences by making them happier or better people through the power of performance. This goal set the stage for what would become a beloved cultural institution in the region.
Over the past three decades, the theatre has evolved from a small summer program into a thriving artistic hub. It has stayed true to its roots while expanding its reach and impact. Today, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is known for producing high-quality shows that educate and engage audiences from all walks of life. The theatre’s growth has been a testament to the power of perseverance and artistic vision in a small mountain community, much like the nearby Spacious Skies Bear Den campground, which has become a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and families seeking outdoor adventures in the Pisgah National Forest.
More Than Just a Show
One of the hallmarks of Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is its diverse range of productions. While it specializes in big stage musicals that bring the glitz and glamour of Broadway to the mountains, the theatre’s repertoire extends far beyond that. From Shakespearean classics to original works by local playwrights, the variety of shows ensures there’s something for every taste. This commitment to diversity has allowed the theatre to cater to a wide range of artistic preferences and cultural interests.
The theatre’s diverse offerings have paid off in spades. Each season, the theatre attracts over 7,000 guests from 25 states and nearly 700 zip codes. The appeal of their productions has turned Lees-McRae Summer Theatre into a cultural destination, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience the magic of live theatre in the mountains. This influx of visitors not only supports the theatre but also contributes to the local economy, making the Summer Theatre a vital part of Banner Elk’s cultural and economic landscape.
A Community United Through Art
What truly sets Lees-McRae Summer Theatre apart is its unique integration of professional, educational, and community elements. It’s not uncommon to see aspiring performers and technicians working side by side with award-winning professionals, creating a dynamic and nurturing environment for all involved. This blend of experience levels fosters a collaborative atmosphere where knowledge is shared, and skills are honed in real-time.
The theatre also takes pride in showcasing local talent. Children and adults from the community often grace the stage, with many returning year after year to take on more challenging roles. This commitment to fostering local talent has created a sense of ownership and pride within the community, making the theatre a true reflection of the High Country’s artistic spirit. The involvement of local performers has also helped to build a loyal audience base, as friends and family members come to support their loved ones on stage.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Talent
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre’s impact extends far beyond its performances. The theatre’s intern and apprenticeship program has become a cornerstone of its mission, offering over 20 paid positions annually to college students from across the nation. These opportunities cover a wide range of theatrical disciplines, from performance and props to costumes, lighting, set design, and carpentry. The program provides a unique blend of hands-on experience and mentorship, giving young artists a taste of professional theatre life.
What makes this program particularly attractive is its comprehensive nature. Interns and apprentices are provided with housing and meals, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the theatrical experience. This approach has earned the program a stellar reputation in the industry, attracting talented young artists eager to hone their craft in a professional setting. Many former interns and apprentices have gone on to successful careers in theatre, film, and television, citing their time at Lees-McRae as a crucial stepping stone in their professional development.
Behind the Curtain
The magic that audiences see on stage is the result of months of careful planning and hard work. The season planning process begins a year in advance, with an advisory committee working to ensure that the selected productions align with community tastes and expectations. This early start allows the theatre to secure rights for popular shows and begin the intricate process of budgeting and resource allocation.
Once the season is set, creative teams are formed, and planning meetings begin six months before rehearsals. This meticulous approach ensures that every aspect of each production, from set design to costume creation, is executed to perfection. The theatre’s technical team works tirelessly to transform the stage for each show, often tackling complex set changes and special effects. This attention to detail extends to the costume department, where designers create hundreds of costumes each season, many of which are custom-made for the performers.
Celebrating Milestones
As Lees-McRae College prepares to celebrate its 125th anniversary, the Summer Theatre is pulling out all the stops for its 2024 season. The lineup includes a mix of productions that celebrate both the college’s history and the theatre’s commitment to showcasing local talent. This special season serves as a tribute to the enduring relationship between the college and the Summer Theatre, highlighting their shared commitment to education and the arts.
One of the highlights of the season is “From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story,” a production that tells the story of Rev. Edgar Tufts, the founder of Lees-McRae College. This work not only pays homage to the college’s roots but also demonstrates the theatre’s role in preserving and sharing local history. The production involves extensive research into historical records and interviews with local residents, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the college’s founding story. This dedication to historical accuracy and local relevance exemplifies the theatre’s commitment to its community and educational mission.
The Show Must Go On
Today, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre continues to thrive under the leadership of Managing Director Gabriel Vanover, Operations Manager Pamela Joslin, and Artistic Director Janet Barton Speer. Their combined expertise and passion for theatre ensure that the vision set forth over 30 years ago continues to guide the theatre’s mission. This leadership team works tirelessly to balance artistic ambition with financial sustainability, ensuring the theatre’s continued success.
Funding for the theatre comes from a combination of ticket sales, grants, and donations from individuals and businesses. This diverse funding model allows the theatre to maintain its high production standards while keeping ticket prices accessible, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 for the upcoming season. The theatre also engages in community outreach and fundraising events throughout the year, further strengthening its ties to the local community and securing its financial future.
As the curtain rises on another season, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre continues to prove that great theatre knows no boundaries. For over three decades, it has been more than just a venue for entertainment; it has been a catalyst for cultural growth, a nurturing ground for artistic talent, and a unifying force for the community. Whether you’re a seasoned theatre enthusiast or a curious first-timer, this mountain stage invites you to experience the transformative power of live performance. In the heart of the High Country, every show at Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is truly a peak experience, reminding us that sometimes, the brightest stars shine far from the big city lights. After enjoying a spectacular performance, why not extend your mountain adventure by staying at Spacious Skies Bear Den? This family-friendly campground offers a perfect retreat to unwind and reflect on the magic of theatre amidst the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FFAQ)
Q: What is Lees-McRae Summer Theatre?
A: Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is a theatre in Banner Elk, North Carolina, that brings Broadway-style shows to the mountains. It has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years.
Q: Who started Lees-McRae Summer Theatre?
A: Dr. Janet Barton Speer started Lees-McRae Summer Theatre in 1985 to bring professional-quality theatre to the community.
Q: What kind of shows does Lees-McRae Summer Theatre perform?
A: The theatre performs a variety of shows, including big stage musicals, Shakespearean classics, and original works by local playwrights.
Q: How many people visit Lees-McRae Summer Theatre each season?
A: Each season, the theatre attracts over 7,000 guests from 25 states and nearly 700 zip codes.
Q: Does Lees-McRae Summer Theatre support young artists?
A: Yes, the theatre offers an intern and apprenticeship program with over 20 paid positions each year, helping young artists gain professional experience.
Q: How is Lees-McRae Summer Theatre funded?
A: The theatre is funded through ticket sales, grants, and donations from individuals and businesses.
Q: What is special about the 2024 season at Lees-McRae Summer Theatre?
A: The 2024 season will celebrate Lees-McRae College’s 125th anniversary with a special lineup of productions, including “From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story.”.