Lees-McRae Summer Theatre
For over 40 years, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has delighted local audiences and summer visitors with high-quality, professional productions. Known as the “Gem of the High Country,” the company presents a wide range of theatrical works, with a special focus on musicals—from beloved Golden Age classics to the latest Broadway hits, and even original pieces.
Each summer, our productions come to life through the dedication of a talented company of artists, technicians, and performers from across the country and right here in our community.
Join Lees-McRae Summer Theatre this summer as we celebrate our 41st season.
Online ticket sales begin May 18
Box Office opens for in-person sales June 10
Moses, The Musical
May 15–17
May 15 at 7 p.m.
May 16 at 2 p.m.
May 17 at 3 p.m.
Music by John and Tommy Oaks
Book by Janet Barton Speer
Musical Direction by Nina Allbert
Writers Janet Speer and John & Tommy Oaks are back! Several years ago, they created Moses: The Musical for Lees-McRae Summer Theatre. In our 2025 season, we're thrilled to present a newly edited version at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church on the Lees-McRae Campus. All seats are general admission. No advance ticket sales, and no set ticket price—just come and enjoy! Don’t miss this uplifting theatrical experience!
Moses, The Musical, presented in partnership with and performed at the Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, is a "pay-what-you-will" production, with all proceeds benefitting Lees-McRae Summer Theatre. Donations for this production are taken at the door only.
Shrek, The Musical
June 11–16
June 12–14 at 2 p.m.
June 11, 13, and 16 at 7 p.m.
Music by Jeanine Tesori
Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire
Directed by Jarrett W. Koski, Lees-McRae 2012 Alumnus
Musical Direction by Nina Allbert
"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.
America 250
June 30–July 5
July 1–2, and 5 at 2 p.m.
June 30 and July 3 at 7 p.m.
Written and Directed by Janet Barton Speer
Musical Direction by Rob Dingman
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.
Sister Act
July 25–31
July 26, 29, and 31 at 2 p.m.
July 25, 28, and 30 at 7 p.m.
Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Glenn Slater
Book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner
Directed by Janet Barton Speer
Musical Direction by Rob Dingman
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.