FORUM was organized in 1979 by a small group of "summer people" to bring a stimulating series of cultural programs to the area. With the help of Lees-McRae College, one of the region's most important resources, FORUM has grown by leaps and bounds and embarks on its thirty-first year of providing both cultural enrichment and wholesome entertainment.

The key to FORUM's success is the dedicated involvement and cooperation between seasonal residents, local residents and Lees-McRae College. The FORUM Board of Directors is made up of representatives from each of these groups.

The formula for the selection of programs is unique. Most programs are selected as a result of personal contact with an area resident. Recommendations are made to the Program Selection Committee (PSC) who make selections, and contact the artists to see if they are available and will work within FORUM's limited time frame and budget. The PSC attempts to balance its choices to provide presentations of thought provoking speakers, vocalists, Big Band/brass, chamber ensembles, pianists, dance and drama.

Expenses for FORUM programs are underwritten by contributors. In special cases, entire programs are underwritten by members of the community. FORUM plans each year's programs based on the previous year's contributions. The membership year is September 1 through August 31.

If you have enjoyed FORUM, we invite you to help ensure its continuation by becoming a "Friend" (contributions up to $125.00) or a Patron ($125.00 or more per person). PATRON BENEFITS: As a patron you will enjoy limited reserved parking at Hayes Lot and an invitation to the Annual Patron Social. Checks should be made payable to FORUM and mailed to FORUM, P. O. Box 649, Banner Elk, NC 28604 or all four major credit cards are accepted.

2010 PROGRAM SCHEDULE
June 22 – Big Ray and the Kool Kats	This 12-member group of instrumentalists, vocalists and dancers brings us swing music from the 60s, 70s and 80s.
June 29 – David Osborne	David Osborne, known as the “Pianist to the Presidents,” and his trio will present Broadway, romantic, classical and ageless standards of the American songbook.
July 6 – Linda Davis	Linda Davis is a Grammy winning singer/songwriter. This world-class entertainer brings us an evening of Country music and standards including her personal hits.
July 13 - The Western Piedmont Symphony	John Gordon Ross returns for his 17^th season as Music Director and Conductor with a program of popular classics.
July 20 – Brian Roman	Bryan Roman will demonstrate his natural ability to sing with many popular tunes from Elvis to Sinatra and his own recordings such as “As Long As I Have Music”.
July 27 - ShaeLaurel	This six-member family brings us their high-energy musical acrobatics along with Irish Step, American Dance and traditional vocals.
August 3 – Celtic Tenors	This unique Irish group of cross-over artists bring vitality, with and variety in the form of appropriate classical, folk, Irish and pop music.
August 10 – Joseph Martin	Pianist and composer Joseph Martin, accompanied by wife Sue, a lyric soprano, will present a concert of secular piano and vocal music.

All programs are held in Hayes Auditorium on Lees-McRae College campus.

Keep checking the web site for more information.

To become a FORUM patron, contact Sandy Ramsey.
828.898.8748

FORUM
P. O. Box 649
Banner Elk, NC 28604

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