Lees-McRae Summer Theatre returns to the stage for its 40th season with a bright spotlight on the extraordinary people of the High Country – past and present. For more than three decades, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has been providing high-quality, professional theatre to the community and summer visitors of the area. Referred to as the “Gem of the High Country,” the company produces a variety of theatre, but specializes in musicals—Golden Age classics to the newest Broadway hits, and even original works. Each summer the productions are brought to life by the hard work of a 150+ member company who join us in the mountains from all over the country to share their talents.
May 13-17, 2026: Moses, The Musical.
Lees-McRae Summer Theater is excited to present an updated version of Moses: The Musical, which splashes onto the stage with toe‑tapping tunes, larger‑than‑life miracles, and one very reluctant hero who discovers he’s destined for something extraordinary. From palace halls to parted seas, this lighthearted romp transforms an epic journey into a joyful, high‑energy adventure the whole family can cheer for. Presented at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. Get info and buy tickets.
Shows run on May 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. and on May 17 at 3 p.m.
June 11-16, 2026: Shrek, The Musical,
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek….” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand…and his name is Shrek.
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure that brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears. Directed by Jarrett W. Koski. Get info and buy tickets.
Shows run on June 12–14 at 2 p.m., June 11, 13, and 16 at 7 p.m.
June 30-July 5, 2026: America 250,
A group of performers are putting together a show to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary on July 4th. Hilariously, they don’t always agree on what America stands for, or what songs should be included. Featuring beloved patriotic favorites and hidden musical gems, the show is brought to life by a powerhouse vocal cast. You will hear musical arrangements that make the emotions soar. This evening of singing, dancing, and storytelling offers a fresh, entertaining look at America’s journey as we celebrate her 250th birthday. Written and directed by Janet Barton Speer, Musical Direction by Rob Dingman. Get info and buy tickets.
Shows run on July 1–2, and 5 at 2 p.m. June 30 and July 3 at 7 p.m.
July 25–31, 2026: Sister Act,
When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent! Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she rediscovers her own. Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy based on the hit 1992 film. Directed by Janet Barton Speer. Get info and buy tickets.
Shows run on July 26, 29, and 31 at 2 p.m., July 25, 28, and 30 at 7 p.m.