The historic and beloved Appalachian Theatre of the High Country has been situated in the heart of downtown Boone, NC, on King Street since it was built in 1938. The theatre operated successfully for over 70 years and then closed its doors for repair and renovation in 2007. It reopened after undergoing intensive repairs and renovations over a decade later in late 2019.
The theatre has played host to several incredible acts throughout the years. Some of the most notable include bluegrass stars Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, groups like the Foggy Bottom Boys, Hill Billy Jamboree and Quiz Shows, Doc Watson and Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys. The art-deco style that has been restored to its previous grandeur is a site to behold, and the theatre now proudly features a variety of events as part of its jam-packed schedule, including hosting feature films, panelist discussions, musical acts, theatrical performances, and documentaries.
The non-profit and independently owned Appalachian Theatre proudly serves as a hub of entertainment for downtown Boone, NC. It provides a myriad of entertainment options for tourists and residents alike, highlighting all that makes the High Country great both historically and in modern times. Although the renovations were designed to restore the art-deco style of seating and appearance, the theatre has been transformed in terms of modern technical advancement.
Today, the Appalachian Theatre meets all ADA requirements and includes state-of-the-art technical equipment, such as digital projection, a new sound system, theatrical lighting, and more, ushering the beloved theatre into the modern age of performance venues. There are also valued modern amenities, like expanded wing space, a loading dock, elevators, and dressing rooms to further appeal to potential performers.
The backstory of the beautiful Appalachian Theatre is interesting to learn. It was constructed by W. Ralph Winkler and A.E. Hamby for $40,000 and was designed by Clarence P. Coffey, who studied under renowned architect Frank Loyd Wright. The theater’s massive steel beams were originally transported up the mountain via train and continue to make it possible to create the clear-spanned auditorium, known for its luxurious unobstructed views.
When it opened, it sat 999 guests and was billed by Hamby and Winkler as being “Western Carolina’s Finest Theatre.” The art deco building was the first of its kind to be constructed in all of Watauga County and its decorative black and mint green glass along with the dramatic neon detailed marquee dramatically transformed the overall feel of downtown Boone.
After its reopening in 2019, the theatre was again closed due to the global pandemic, but then reopened again in 2021. A $10 million project, which was funded by private donations from foundations, businesses, and individuals, was put to use to lead the theatre into a new era of discovery and growth. Today’s programs revolve around four main areas: ATHC Live events, educational programming, entails and films.
The venue proudly hosted over 200 events, serving 25,000 guests during its first fully operational after the renewal project, the years 2022-2023. The organization also uses the theatre to host educational programming for school field trips and summer camps, welcoming an additional 34,000 guests.
Some of the upcoming events at the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country with tickets available include a showing of the 2005 film The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary. Other events include a performance by Cedric Watson & Ethan Moody who are four-time Grammy-nominated fiddlers, accordionists, singers, and songwriters. The Chatham Rabbits are also scheduled to perform and are billed as pioneering new music from traditional roots.
Insider Tips:
-Appalachian Theatre does not own or operate parking lots. There are metered parking spots available on the street or Kiosk pay parking in several lots, including King Street, Depot Street, Queen Street and Water Streets, all of which are within walking distance of the theatre.
-When on theatre property for an event, there could be still photos taken for security, marketing, promotional, and archival use. Therefore, anyone attending any event or movie should know this is a possibility. It is advised that those who do not wish to appear do not enter the venture.
-Small purses are allowed, but all bags are subject to search. Duffle bags and backpacks are prohibited along with any oversized bags larger than 8.5” x 11”.