Since 1985, summer visitors to Banner Elk have enjoyed top-quality, Broadway-style shows on the campus of Lees-McRae College in the heart of this resort town in the North Carolina mountains.
From those beginnings in the 1980s, Lees-McRae Summer Theatre has entertained more than a quarter million patrons.
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre charms audiences with a unique blend of professional, educational and community theater. The company includes aspiring performers and technicians working alongside award-winning industry professionals. All mixed with a dash of local actors.
[Scroll down to see this year’s shows]
These talented folks descend on Banner Elk each summer to work with founder and artistic director Dr. Janet Barton Speer. It was Speer who, at the behest of the college, started the program in 1985 after successfully directing at regional theatres.
Each year, the theatre discovers and showcases local talents, both children and adults. Some locals have worked on dozens of shows, and many children return every year to take more challenging roles.
Once shows are selected and rights secured, a creative team is formed for each production. This includes music directors, choreographers and designers.
All shows take place at the well-appointed Broyhill Theatre inside Hayes Auditorium on the Lees-McRae College campus at 191 Main Street West in Banner Elk. Parking is free, with many restaurants within walking distance.
Funding for Lees-McRae Summer Theatre comes from ticket sales, grants and donations by individuals and businesses.
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre 2026
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre returns to the stage for its 41st season with a quartet of great musicals. Details are below.
Moses: The Musical
(May 13–18, 2026)
This 1999 production from local writers Janet Speer and John & Tommy Oaks returns in 2026.
Enjoy a newly edited version of “Moses: The Musical,” fittingly taking place in Banner Elk Presbyterian Church on the campus of Lees-McRae College.
This uplifting theatrical experience is presented in partnership with Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. It’s a “pay-what-you-will” production with no advance ticket sales or set ticket price. Donations are taken at the door and all proceeds benefit Lees-McRae Summer Theatre.
“Moses: The Musical” shows take place May 13 @ 7 p.m., May 14 @ 7 p.m. and May 18 @ 3 p.m. All are at Banner Elk Presbyterian Church, 420 College Drive SW, Banner Elk, NC. More info available here.
Shrek: The Musical
(June 11–16, 2026)
The story about an ogre named Shrek is a whimsical 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 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. All the beloved characters from the film come to life on stage, while proving there’s more to the story than meets the ears.
“Shrek, The Musical” shows take place June 11 @ 7 p.m., June 12 @ 2 p.m., June 13 @ 7 p.m., June 14 @ 2 p.m. and June 16 @ 7 p.m.
America 250
(June 30-July 5, 2026)
A light-hearted look in on a group of performers who are putting together a show to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
There’s a good bit of back-and-forth about what songs should be included. Ultimately they settle on a selection of beloved patriotic favorites and hidden musical gems. This show comes to life thanks to a powerhouse vocal cast who present musical arrangements that will make your emotions soar.
This evening of singing, dancing, and storytelling offers a fresh, entertaining look at America’s journey as we celebrate her 250th birthday.
“America 250” is written and directed by Janet Speer, with musical direction by Rob Dingman. Shows take place June 30 @ 7 p.m., July 1 @ 2 p.m., July 2 @ 2 p.m., July 3 @ 7 p.m., and July 5 @ 2 p.m.
Sister Act
(July 25-31, 2026)
This heavenly delightful comedy shares the story of disco diva Deloris Van Cartier.
After witnessing a murder, Deloris enters protective custody in the one place cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent!
Along the way, Deloris helps her new-found fellow sisters find their voices as she rediscovers her own. Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy based on the mega-hit 1992 film.
“Sister Act” is directed by Janet Speer, with musical direction by Rob Dingman. Shows take place July 25 @ 7 p.m., July 26 @ 2 p.m., July 28 @ 7 p.m., July 29 @ 2 p.m., July 30 @ 7 p.m. and July 31 @ 2 p.m.
Ticket Information
Performances take place at Broyhill Theatre inside Hayes Auditorium on the Lees-McRae College campus, unless otherwise noted. Adult and student tickets are available. More information about purchasing tickets is available here or by calling 828.898.8709.