Unique Theater Experiences in Asheville, NC

Fresh Works that Spark Imagination

Asheville is a haven for originality. From breathtaking aerial arts to vibrant reinterpretations of Shakespeare, Asheville is driven by artistic vision and bold risk-taking. Artists push boundaries to delight visitors and locals with original works that inspire discovery. Sitting in the audience is like stepping into a new world where creativity reigns supreme.

Magnetic Theater Pulls in Audiences

Original works are at the center of The Magnetic Theatre’s force field. Talented playwrights are drawn to theater’s dedication to new works. It’s one of the few theaters in the country that is exclusively devoted to world premiers.

Audiences are quick to respond to its sold-out shows that sometimes poke good-humored fun at Asheville’s quirks. Midsummer for Haters, a collaboration with Nemesis Theatre Company, is a retelling of Shakespeare's beloved classic "by the people who can't stand it, resulting in a kidnapped Amazon, mystified mortals, sadistic fairies, and mechanicals gone wild!"

Starbright tells the story of an astrophysicist, Grace, who lost her daughter a year ago, as she goes on a journey to understand the universe and control her life.

Asheville’s jovial spirit make The Magnetic Theatre’s productions a hot ticket for anyone who wants to see the city at its best. Catch a show at the theater’s home in the River Arts District.

Montford Park Players Shake Up Shakespeare

The power of the Bard is unparalleled, but each production explores new territory in the hands of the Montford Park Players. In the past, Richard II was reinvented as a steampunk opera; Taming of the Shrew boasted a “Shakespearean flash-mob.”

The outdoor Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre fosters a relaxed atmosphere where t-shirts, dogs and picnics are encouraged. The summer performances are free (donations are encouraged) and a palpable sense of joy and humor permeate the air.

Notoriously Creative Nutcracker at ACDT

Theater doesn’t stop during the winter months. The Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre reinvents The Nutcracker each season to wide acclaim. Some years it’s an entirely original production. Other years it features long-forgotten versions of this classic story.

ACDT presents several special events throughout the year, including the Asheville Butoh Festival and the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival. These multi-location events invite audiences to experience theater in wildly imaginative ways.

Magnetic Theatre photo courtesy of Magnetic Theatre. Fox & Beggar Theater photo by TazDigital.