About Summer Theatre

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre delivers high-quality, professional theatre in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The company specializes in large-scale musicals, featuring beloved Broadway classics alongside contemporary hits and compelling original works. The season runs from mid-June through July.

Founded in 1985 by Dr. Janet Barton Speer at the request of Lees-McRae College, the Summer Theatre was built on a simple yet powerful mission: to leave audiences happier or better than when they arrived. Drawing on her decades of experience directing at regional theatres, Dr. Speer created a program that was an immediate success. Since its inception, the theatre has sold more than 250,000 tickets. Each season now welcomes over 7,000 guests from 25 states and nearly 700 zip codes.

A strong commitment to community is at the heart of Lees-McRae Summer Theatre. Each year, the program actively seeks to discover and showcase local talent—both children and adults. Many community members have participated in dozens of productions, and young performers often return year after year to take on increasingly challenging roles.

Planning for each summer season begins nearly a year in advance. Audience members and company participants contribute suggestions for future productions, while an advisory committee—established in 1997—helps ensure the season reflects the interests and tastes of the local community.

Once productions are selected and performance rights are secured, creative teams are assembled for each show, including directors, music directors, choreographers, and designers. Detailed planning begins up to six months before rehearsals, with design work, casting, and contracting taking place between January and May. During this time, marketing campaigns launch and ticket sales begin.

By late May, cast and crew arrive on the Lees-McRae College campus. Sets and costumes are built as rehearsals get underway. As the season progresses, performances and rehearsals overlap, with multiple productions in development at once. An enthusiastic team of volunteers supports every performance, assisting with everything from ticketing and ushering to guest services.

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre is led by Director Janet Barton Speer and is supported through ticket sales, grants, and generous contributions from individuals and businesses.

Mission

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre, rooted in the heart of the High Country, is committed to producing professional, varied productions that captivate audiences, develop and mentor student artists, reinforce our dedication to Lees McRae College and its mission, and strengthen our community through collaborative cultural enrichment.

Summer Theatre Advisory Committee

Mike Gaither (Chair)
Nina Allbert 
Dee Dee Berger
Carol Berns
Sue Chase
Rob Dingman
Jeff Handler
Marion Krege
Jarrett Koski
Kristin Lutzeier
Brenda Lyerly
Sandi Solomon
Janet Speer
Nanci Tolbert Nance
 

Summer Theatre Staff

Janet Barton Speer, PhD
Artistic Director
speerj@lmc.edu

Mailing Address

Lees-McRae Summer Theatre
PO Box 128
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Box Office: 828.898.8709