The city of Asheville is closely associated with the arts. Of course, the region is surrounded by the tallest mountains on the East Coast, so inspiration abounds throughout western North Carolina. 

The River Arts District attracts millions of visitors annually and some of the world’s best painters, sculptors, and more. At the same time, the performing arts are alive and well in Buncombe County, with dozens of fantastic music and theater venues. Here is what you need to know about live theater in Asheville, NC. 

Live Theater in and Around Asheville, NC

Some of the premier live theaters in the Asheville area include:

• Asheville Community Theatre: In operation for over 70 years, you will find some of Asheville’s best shows here. 
• Asheville Performing Arts Academy: Your destination for youth and children’s theatre. 
• Brevard Music Center Summer Festival: Form music to the theater; this venue operates from June through August. 
• NC Stage: Located in downtown Asheville, this is a great place to catch a show with a professional cast.
• Flat Rock Playhouse: Located in Henderson County, you can experience the best of Broadway, comedy, and dance here.
• The Center for Art & Inspiration, Hendersonville: Staying in Henderson County, The CAI in Hendersonville has a wide range of shows.
• Diana Wortham Theatre: This 500-seat venue on Biltmore Avenue hosts many of the city’s best shows.
• Asheville Creative Arts: This theater is critically acclaimed and known for putting on amazing shows for multicultural audiences.
• Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre: Located in Mars Hill, you can catch four to five incredible shows here.
• Thomas Wolfe Auditorium: From music to theater, Thomas Wolfe is an amazing venue in which to watch the performing arts.
• The Magnetic Theatre: This is the only theater in the area dedicated to original works.
• Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective: This non-profit organization collaborates with performance artists and groups in a manner that allows audiences to explore visions of our diverse world.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy

For parents of children that may not be content to simply be spectators of all the amazing live theater in our area, Asheville Performing Arts Academy is here for you. Our mission is to foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help them excel at their dreams.

We have a wide range of programs that help students develop their performance skills and confidence. You can visit our website to learn more about our summer camps and programs. We want to help your child maintain their imagination and creativity by participating in the performing arts. 

In the Asheville area, our program is unique. Contact our team for more information about live theater for children in Buncombe County, NC.