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The Lost Colony Theater

The Lost Colony is an outdoor drama that has been performed on Roanoke Island in North Carolina since 1937. The play tells the story of the early English settlers who disappeared from the island in the late 16th century.

The Lost Colony theater is located in a beautiful outdoor setting and the show features live actors, music, and special effects. The production is well-regarded for its high-quality performances and historical accuracy.

Attending The Lost Colony can be a unique and enjoyable experience for those interested in history, theater, or just looking for a fun evening out. However, like any live theater production, enjoyment of the show can vary depending on personal preferences and tastes.

The History

The Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) was founded on January 8, 1932, with a mission to commemorate the history of the first English colonies in North America on Roanoke Island, North Carolina. The RIHA accomplishes this mission through the annual production of the symphonic outdoor drama, The Lost Colony, and through educationally engaging events and programs.

The Lost Colony is the nation’s premier and longest-running symphonic drama. Its 83rd season runs from May 29 through August 21, 2020, at Roanoke Island’s Waterside Theatre. The play tells the story of the early English settlers who disappeared from the island in the late 16th century. It is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green and produced by the RIHA, a non-profit organization that celebrates the history of the first English colonies on Roanoke Island, North Carolina.

The historic Waterside Theatre, home of The Lost Colony, is an outdoor theatre located on the Roanoke Sound. The theatre was built by Albert Quentin “Skipper” Bell, a Yorkshire native who relocated to North Carolina in the late 1920s. Bell’s design for the theatre features simple, backless bench seating for 3,500 patrons and log-structured settlement areas that include a chapel, four cabins, and ramparts. The theatre has survived numerous disasters, including hurricanes, erosion, and fire, but has been rebuilt by Bell and volunteer crews each time. The enduring legacy of Skipper Bell is the theatre itself, which stands as a testament to his creativity and determination.

Visitors to The Lost Colony experience a unique blend of history and theatre. The production features over 100 actors, technicians, designers, and volunteers who bring the story of Roanoke Island’s lost colony to life. The theatre’s open-air setting allows audience members to experience the performance beneath the stars and surrounded by the beautiful natural environment of the Outer Banks. The Lost Colony is a must-see for those interested in history, theatre, and the unique culture of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.