Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps
June 21-July 7, 2024
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:30 PM
ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S THE 39 STEPS
By Patrick Barlow. Based on the novel by John Buchan and the film by Alfred Hitchcock.
June 21-July 7, 2024
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:30 PM
Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps is proudly sponsored by Bray Creech & Chad Storck – Joel Adams & Associates
ABOUT THE SHOW
Prepare yourself for a whirlwind adventure of suspense and comedy with Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps. This fast-paced play is a unique adaptation of the 1935 classic Hitchcock thriller film, infused with a healthy dose of Monty Python-style humor. The story revolves around the central character, Richard Hannay, who inadvertently gets tangled in a mysterious web of spies, murder, and love. Remarkably, the entire riveting narrative unfolds through the talents of just four actors, who collectively portray over 150 characters, masterfully switching roles with lightning speed. Brimming with clever references to Hitchcock’s filmography, wry British humor, and ingeniously crafted theatrical inventiveness, The 39 Steps promises a rollicking evening of entertainment that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.
A talkback with the cast & crew of The 39 Steps will be held following the performances on June 23rd and 30th.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Saturday, July 7: ASL-Interpreted Performance
DATE TBA: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG-13.
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Bat Boy: The Musical
Book by: Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming; Music and Lyrics by: Laurence O’KeefeJuly 21 - August 6, 2023
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm
Based on the sensational story published in The Weekly World News, Bat Boy: The Musical is a fang-tastic rock musical that takes you on a wild journey into the life of a half-boy, half-bat creature. Discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, West Virginia, Bat Boy is taken in by the town veterinarian’s family and sets off on quest for acceptance, love, and the truth about his unholy origins. Through humor, heart, and an incredible rock musical score, the show explores themes of prejudice, compassion, and what it truly means to be human.
Indulge your curiosity and uncover the shocking secrets that lie beneath the surface of this simple mountain town.
READ THE ASHEVILLE STAGES REVIEW
Sunday, July 23: Q&A Matinee with Post-Show Talkback
Accessibility
Saturday, Aug 5, 2023: ASL-Interpreted Performance
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
Content Disclosure: This show contains blatant violence, drug use, and sexual situations which some patrons may find disturbing. Patron discretion is advised.
Photosensitivity Disclosure: this show contains several sequences of flashing lights which may affect patrons who are photosensitive.
Promo Videos
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Bright Star
Music, Book, & Story by Steve Martin; Music, Lyrics, & Story by Edie BrickellApril 21 - May 14, 2023
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm
Set in our very own Blue Ridge Mountains, Bright Star tells the story of Alice at two different points in her life: as a young girl in the mountains, and 22 years later as the well-to-do editor of a successful Asheville magazine. A serendipitous encounter inspires Alice to face her past, and a stunning realization changes her life forever. Bright Star is based on the Grammy Award-winning bluegrass album, Love Has Come for You, and centers particularly on the song “Iron Mountain Baby.” Be sure to listen also for the song with our namesake – “Asheville”!
Content Disclaimer: Bright Star contains swearing, language that some may find blasphemous, incidental drinking and smoking, and kidnapping.
Accessibility:
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Saturday, April 29 & Sunday, April 30, 2023: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired (DASI)
Saturday, May 6, 2023: ASL-Interpreted Performance
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Curtains: School Edition
October 20-22, 2023
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
CURTAINS: SCHOOL EDITION
Music by John Kander. Lyrics by Fred Ebb. Book by Rupert Holmes.
October 20-22, 2023
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
ABOUT THE SHOW
It’s the brassy, bright, and promising year of 1959. Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical. When the leading lady mysteriously dies onstage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter a local detective, who just happens to be a musical theatre fan! Packed with glorious tunes and a witty, charming script filled with delightful characters, Curtains is a hilarious journey for both performers and the audience.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG.
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Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids
March 8-10, 2024
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
DISNEY’S 101 DALMATIANS KIDS
Music & Lyrics by Mel Leven, Randy Rogel, Richard Gibbs, Brian Smith, Dan Root, and Martin Lee Fuller. Book Adapted by Marcy Heisler. Music Adapted by Bryan Louiselle.
March 8-10, 2024
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
ABOUT THE SHOW
Pet owners, Roger and Anita, live happily in London with their Dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita, stalwart dogs devoted to raising their puppies. Everything is quiet until Anita’s former classmate, the monstrous Cruella De Vil, plots to steal the puppies for her new fur coat. The Dalmatians rally all the dogs of London for a daring rescue of the puppies from Cruella and her bumbling henchmen.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated G.
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Disney’s Descendants
May 17-19, 2024
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
DISNEY’S DESCENDANTS
Book & Additional Lyrics by Nick Blaemire. Music Adaptation by Madeline Smith. Orchestrations by Matthew Tishler.
May 17-19, 2024
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:30 PM
ABOUT THE SHOW
Imprisoned on the Isle of the Lost – home of the most infamous villains who ever lived – the teenaged children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar, and Cruella De Vil have never ventured off the island… until now. When the four troublemakers are sent to attend prep school alongside the children of beloved Disney heroes, they have a difficult choice to make: should they follow in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learn to be good? Based on the popular Disney Channel Original Movies, Disney’s Descendants: The Musical is jam-packed with comedy, adventure, Disney characters, and hit songs from the films!
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated G.
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Elf The Musical
Book by: Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin; Music by: Matthew Sklar; Lyrics by: Chad Beguelin; Directed by: Jeff CataneseDecember 2 - December 18, 2022
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30pm, and Thursday December 15 at 7:30 pm
Based on the beloved film Elf, this hilarious fish-out-of-water musical comedy is an extravaganza of holiday cheer! Join Buddy the Elf in his quest to share his authentic self, win over his birth family, and help New York City remember the true meaning of Christmas. Elf The Musical is bursting with bright costumes, jolly dancing, and show-stopping songs. This heartwarming holiday tale dazzles and delights all ages!
Accessibility:
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Saturday, Dec 17, 2022: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Dec 10 and Dec 11, 2022: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired (DASI)
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Elf: The Musical
December 1-23, 2023
Thursdays, Fridays, at 7:30 PM, Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Performances for December 21st, 22nd, & 23rd are cancelled.
ABOUT THE SHOW
Embrace the spirit of Christmas with Elf: The Musical, a heartwarming and hilarious adaptation of the beloved 2003 holiday film. This enchanting musical follows the journey of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. Through catchy, uplifting songs and zany comedic antics, Elf: The Musical serves a healthy dose of holiday cheer, laughter, and life lessons about identity, family, and the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a magical, festive spectacle guaranteed to light up the holiday season for all ages!
Jingle Bell Jamboree
Saturday, December 2, 9, 16, & 23 at 1:30 PM before Elf: The Musical
Join us for the Jingle Bell Jamboree – a pre-show experience offered during Saturday matinees of Elf: The Musical.
Children will be enchanted as they receive their special elf name and write heartfelt letters to Santa. They’ll play reindeer games, take on the challenge of the elf obstacle course, and create Christmas crafts. And to top it all off, characters from Elf: The Musical will be make a special appearance, providing perfect photo opportunities.
This is your chance to start the show with a heartwarming, festive celebration. Join us at the Jingle Bell Jamboree from 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM; this experience is limited, with only 25 tickets available, and each child must be accompanied by a guardian.
Add the Jingle Bell Jamboree pre-show experience to your Saturday matinee.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
DATE TBA: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired
DATE TBA: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Content Awareness
This production is rated G.
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Elf: The Musical Jr.
December 16-17, 2023
Saturday & Sunday at 7:30 PM
ELF: THE MUSICAL JR.
Music by Matthew Sklar. Lyrics by Chad Beguelin. Book by Bob Martin & Thomas Meehan. Based on the Elf film by David Berenbaum.
December 16-17, 2023
Saturday & Sunday at 7:30 PM
ABOUT THE SHOW
Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated G.
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Finding Nemo Jr.
August 9-10, 2024
Friday and Saturday at 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 3:00PM
DISNEY’S FINDING NEMO JR.
Music and Lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez; Book Adapted By Lindsay Anderson
August 9-10, 2024
ABOUT THE SHOW
Explore the Big Blue World with Finding Nemo Jr., based on the beloved Pixar film! When Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With help from the always optimistic Dory, chill sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo overcome challenges on their journeys to find each other and themselves. Finding Nemo Jr. brings a vibrant underwater world to life onstage in a story of family, friendship, and adventure!
ACCESSIBILITY
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
CONTENT AWARENESS
This production is rated G.
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Flyin’ West
February 16-25, 2024
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:30 PM
ABOUT THE SHOW
Flyin’ West is a compelling, crowd-pleasing drama by esteemed playwright Pearl Cleage. Set in the 1890s, the story unfolds in the historic town of Nicodemus, Kansas, one of the many all-Black towns established in the American West following the Civil War. Through the eyes of four African-American women, the play delves into their journey of resilience and aspiration as they navigate their lives against the backdrop of the harsh realities of the frontier and the societal constraints of the era. With themes of community, racial pride, and female empowerment, Flyin’ West is a powerful portrayal of the determination and grit of black pioneers, offering audiences a captivating glimpse into an often overlooked chapter of American history.
A talkback with the cast & crew of Flyin’ West will be held following the performances on February 18th and 25th.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Sunday, February 18, 2024: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Saturday & Sunday, February 17 & 18, 2024: DASI (Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired)
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG-13. Flyin’ West contains profanity, racial and ethnic slurs, and discussions about slavery and murder. There are depictions of domestic violence, gun usage, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Recommended for patrons 9th grade and above.
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Matilda: The Musical
April 12-May 5, 2024
Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM
Directed by Zoe Zelonky
Matilda: The Musical is proudly sponsored by Hensley Cloninger & Greer Attorneys At Law
ABOUT THE SHOW
Matilda: The Musical is a delightfully imaginative adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book. This Tony Award-winning musical weaves the story of Matilda, a young girl with a sharp wit, unbounded imagination, and psychokinetic powers. Despite the indifference of her shallow parents and the tyranny of the oppressive headmistress Miss Trunchbull, Matilda discovers the strength within herself to change her story. Infused with dark humor, whimsical storytelling, and dazzling performances, Matilda: The Musical is a testament to the power of imagination, resilience, and the transformative magic of learning. A must-see for audiences of all ages who love heartwarming tales of triumph against all odds.
Note: The role of Matilda is double-cast and features two wonderfully talented young actors performing the role of Matilda on alternating nights.
- Ainsley – April 13, 19, 21, 27, 30*, May 3, 5
- Josephine – April 12, 14, 20, 23*, 26, 28, May 4
- * School Matinees (SOLD OUT)
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Friday, April 19, 2024: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired
Saturday, May 4, 2024: ASL-Interpreted Performance
A talkback with the cast & crew of Matilda: The Musical will be held following the performances on April 14th, 21st, and 28th.
Content Awareness
This production contains some scary scenes and is rated PG.
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Native Gardens
By: Karen ZacaríasFebruary 10 - February 26, 2023
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm
Gardens and cultures clash in contemporary comedy Native Gardens! Tania, a very pregnant PhD candidate, and Pablo, her high-powered lawyer husband, buy a house with a big backyard in Washington, DC. Living next door to community stalwarts Virginia and Frank is great – until a disagreement arises over a long-standing fence line between their homes. The conflict spirals into an all-out war of taste, class, privilege, and entitlement. With witty humor and engaging real-life drama, Native Gardens showcases conflict – and the worst and best ways to work it out!
Content Disclaimer: Native Gardens contains mature themes, depictions of smoking, pregnancy/childbirth, microaggressions, and discussions of racism.
Accessibility:
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Feb 18 and Feb 19, 2022: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired (DASI)
Saturday, Feb 25, 2023: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Sunday, Feb 26, 2023: Spanish-Translated Performance by Cenzontle (Spanish audio listening devices will be available in the lobby before the show. Devices may be used in any seating location.)
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Our Town
By: Thornton Wilder; Directed by: Robert Arleigh WhiteSeptember 30 - October 16, 2022
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm
Our Town tells a story of life – from birth to love to death – that we can all relate to. Next-door families, the Gibbs and the Webbs, and their tight-knit small town, experience love and loss as they face the realities of life’s inevitable changes.
ACT gives this American classic a fresh approach and contemporary design to reflect our own town of Asheville, North Carolina today: how we look and sound, how we work and play, how we live and die. Come celebrate Our Town and heed the reminder to appreciate life’s most precious moments – the ones we spend with each other!
Accessibility:
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Oct 8, 2022: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Oct 8 and Oct 9, 2022: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired (DASI)
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Pippin
September 15-October 8, 2023
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2:30 PM
About Pippin
Step into a world of magic, mystery, and self-discovery with the Tony Award-winning musical, Pippin. This Broadway classic, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Roger O. Hirson, tells the captivating story of a young prince on a daring quest for the ultimate meaning of life and fulfillment. From spectacular circus-inspired performances to stirring, emotionally-charged songs, Pippin unfolds as an exploration of the highs and lows of glory, love, and ambition. It’s a compelling narrative that continually asks one poignant question: is it more rewarding to live a simple life or to persist in relentlessly pursuing extraordinary feats? With its rich, allegorical storyline and memorable melodies, Pippin promises to enchant audiences, leaving them musing long after the final curtain call.
A talkback with the cast & crew of Pippin will be held following the performances on September 17th & 24th.
Sponsored By
HomeTrust Bank and Dr. Elizabeth Huddleston
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Sunday, October 8: ASL-Interpreted Performance
Saturday & Sunday, September 23 & 24: Descriptive Audio for the Sight Impaired
Content Awareness
This production contains adult themes, suggestive language, and representations of violence. Rated PG-13.
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RTS: Charlotte’s Web
December 14, 15, & 17
Thursday, Friday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
CHARLOTTE’S WEB
By Joseph Robinette
December 14, 15, & 17
Thursday, Friday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
Come visit the Zuckerman farm where you will meet Wilbur the Pig, Templeton the Rat, the Goose, the Gander, and Charlotte the Spider to witness the miracles that can happen through the simple act of friendship.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated G.
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RTS: Dial M for Murder
November 17-19, 2023
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
DIAL M FOR MURDER
By Frederick Knott
November 17-19, 2023
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
Take a trip into the world of Noir. A simple door key, an interrupted phone call, blackmail, and suspicion combine to produce a darkly complex mystery which will keep you riveted on the edge of your seat.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production contains violence and scariness and is rated PG.
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RTS: Enchanted April
May 31-June 2, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
ENCHANTED APRIL
By Matthew Barber
May 31-June 2, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
To escape the cold rain and melancholy of Post WW1 London, four unlikely traveling companions share the cost of renting a seaside castle in Italy. In this romantic comedy, the women open up to the unexpected and experience a magical month of discovery and renewal.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG.
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RTS: Over The River And Through The Woods
April 26-28, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS
By Joe diPietro
April 26-28, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
When Nick announces he is being promoted and moving to Seattle, his grandparents are devastated and quickly concoct a series of hilarious schemes to keep Nick from leaving, including introducing him to the woman of his dreams.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG.
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RTS: The Birds
March 22-24, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
THE BIRDS
By Conor McPherson
March 22-24, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
Based on a story by Daphne du Maurier and made famous by Alfred Hitchcock, four strangers grapple with birds who have been transformed from creatures of beauty into terrifying, menacing predators.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG-13.
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RTS: The Importance Of Being Earnest
February 16-18, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
By Oscar Wilde
February 16-18, 2024
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:30 PM
Wilde’s most successful and enduring play is a wonderful and witty comedy of deception, disguise and misadventure. Two bachelors, Jack and Algernon, create alter egos in an effort to avoid tedious social obligations and win the hearts of Gwendolen and Cecily, the two women they adore.
Accessibility
All performances: Accessible wheelchair/scooter seating available.
Content Awareness
This production is rated PG.
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Season Subscriptions
Available all year long!
If you’re planning to buy at least four tickets with us, a Season Subscription will save you some money! Subscriptions include five (5) ticket vouchers for ACT’s 2023-24 Mainstage Season.
- Magic & Mystery: Our 77th Mainstage Season
- Pippin – September 15-October 8, 2023
- Elf: The Musical – December 1-23, 2023
- Flyin’ West – February 9-25, 2024
- Matilda: The Musical – April 12-May 5, 2024
- The 39 Steps – June 21-July 7, 2024
The ACT Lobby Gallery
The ACT Lobby Gallery showcases an array of works by local artists and is curated by Sara LeDonne.
Tuesday – Friday from 10-4 and before curtain on show days.
Current Exhibit
Photography by Eric Perkins
“The key to my work is that I stopped, physically, to observe something. I raised my camera and recorded my observations.” – Julius Shulman
Eric Perkins is a man of many values and continued determination. Devoted to photography and the arts from an early age, Eric attended NYU as a film major and continued his education at UNC-Greensboro, and The New School in New York City.
Moving to New York City in the early 70’s Mr. Perkins worked for 23 years as business manager to the preeminent fashion photographer, Francesco Scavullo. This collaboration resulted in his authorship of seven published books, mostly focusing on fashion modeling and health & fitness. Other management positions followed, culminating in his move to Asheville, NC in 2016 to further pursue his photography and other business ventures.
Instagram: @ericperkinsphoto
website: ericperkins.smugmug.com
The Disney Cruise Raffle
March 1, 2024-June 30, 2024
Here’s your chance! Asheville Community Theatre is thrilled to offer you the opportunity to win a magical 4-Night Disney Cruise for four. By purchasing a raffle ticket, not only do you get a shot at an unforgettable family vacation, but you also support the arts in our community.
Prize Details:
- A Dream Cruise: The winner and three guests will embark on a 4-Night journey to the Bahamas aboard a Disney Cruise ship. You’ll stay in a Veranda Cabin with breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.
- Customized Experience: Work with our travel agent, David Lloyd of Foothills Travel, to tailor your trip to perfection. Whether it’s exciting onboard activities or exploring the ports, your adventure will be exactly what you’ve dreamed of.
- Travel Support: We’ve got you covered with an additional $500 to help with transportation to and from port, ensuring a smooth start and end to your magical journey.
- Complete Assistance: From the moment you win to the end of your cruise, you’ll have personalized support to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable.
- Raffle tickets are just $50 each, making this the perfect opportunity to potentially win a trip valued at $8,800, while supporting Asheville Community Theatre’s mission to enrich our community through the arts.
Don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Get your tickets now!
Click here to view the complete set of rules.
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