FORUM at Lees-McRae College
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-third 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.
2012 FORUM Season
June 19 - Liberty Voices – This is an a cappella vocal ensemble that normally performs in the Colonial America section of the Disney World Epcot Center. The singers have an outstanding cohesiveness that comes from vocal excellence, skilled blending and years of longevity.
June 26 - Stig Rossen, a native of Denmark, has been an extremely popular singer throughout Europe; he is just beginning to tour in the United States. His big break came by having an opportunity to sing the Les Miserables role of Jean Valjean in London. Stig’s numerous albums include Stig’s hit songs like Impossible Dream, Letters of Love and Love Changes Everything.
July 3 – Western Piedmont Symphony - This year, Maestro John Gordon Ross and the Western Piedmont Symphony will present a concert of patriotic tunes appropriate for the 4th of July
July 10 – Smitherman and Clarke - The vocal duo of John Smitherman and Niffer Clarke, with a supporting instrumental quartet, will present People Will Say We’re In Love. This will be an interesting evening filled with songs of love and romance.
July 17 - Julian Gargiulo is a world-traveled dynamic classical pianist who renders the compositions of renowned masters with extraordinary passion and precision. Concurrently, Julian fills his concerts with charm, humor and charisma to the appreciative response of the audience.
July 24 – The Glenn Miller Orchestra is the most popular big band in the world today for both concert and swing dance engagements. With its unique jazz sound, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time.
July 29 – Relevents Wind Quintet - This Sunday afternoon Chamber Music concert will feature this Wind quintet recommended by Maestro John Gordon Ross and will be held in Evans Auditorium in Cannon Student Center at 2:00 p.m.
July 31 - Two on Tap marks the creative collaboration of celebrated musical theatre performers Melissa Giattino and Ron DeStefano. Classic songs by Gershwin, Mercer and other Tin Pan Alley songsmiths performed by this high-spirited dance couple will please those patrons looking for a trip down ”Memory Lane” in an evening of sophisticated and exciting entertainment.
August 7 - Andy Cooney, christened “Irish America’s Favorite Son” by the New York Times, with his outstanding voice and dynamic stage presence makes him a favorite with audiences as he renders songs ranging from Galway Bay and Danny Boy to his hit records The Irish Wedding Song, Boston Rose and Daughter of Mine.
To become a FORUM patron, contact Sandy Ramsey.
828.898.8748
FORUM
P. O. Box 649
Banner Elk, NC 28604