Student Matinees

Reservation Form

Cherokee Tales

Presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre
Best For: Grade 4 – Adult
Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 9:00 AM

The Cherokee People have a rich history of myths, legends and folktales explaining everything from the creation of the world to how the plants and animals around us came to look and behave the way they do today. This play introduces young audiences to the Cherokee People through a series of fun and engaging stories. Developed in partnership with the Cherokee Historical Association, this play is a great way to introduce young audiences to the Cherokee people. Commemorate National Native American Heritage month by bringing Cherokee Tales to your young audiences.

Real-Life Legends of Cherokee History

Presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre
Best For: Grade 4 – Adult
Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 11:00 AM

Cherokee history reaches back to time immemorial, yet continues to this day – a story of inspiration, difficulty and courage. This play explores the story of the Cherokee people from prehistory to the present, sharing the stories of legendary real-life figures like Tsali, Sequoyah, Nanyehi, and Wilma Mankiller, as well as major events in the history of the Cherokee such as the Indian Removal Act, “Trail of Tears” and the modern Civil Rights movement. Developed in partnership with the Cherokee Historical Association, this play is a great way to introduce young people to Cherokee history and commemorate National Native American Heritage month.

Elf The Musical – Sold Out

Presented by Asheville Community Theatre
Best For: All Ages
Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at 10:00 AM

Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to live joyfully in community as he finds and shares his true identity. With bright costumes, cheerful dancing, and showstopping songs, this heartwarming holiday tale dazzles and delights all ages!

Let It Shine!

Presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre
Best For: Grade 4 – Adult
Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 11:00 AM

This powerful production will introduce audiences to poignant events and notable names of the Civil Rights Movement. This acclaimed show focuses on the tumultuous years between 1955 and 1968 and shines a light on important milestone in our history, including: the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the SCLC, Brown v. Board of Education, Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and more come to life in this powerful tale. Through stories and song, Let It Shine shows the high price that was paid by those who fought for equal rights during this turbulent time.

Find the Study Guide here!

Upcycled Cinderella

Presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre
Best For: All Ages
Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 9:00 AM

When the scheduled performers fail to arrive for the day’s performance, the facility janitors, “Dustmop” and “Binny,” decide to take over in this hilarious take on the classic fairy tale, Cinderella! One of our most popular shows of all time, Upcycled Cinderella shows that, with a little creativity and ingenuity, you can make the most of any situation. A great show for younger audiences, or for anyone who is young at heart.

Find the Study Guide here!

We Can Do It! 

Presented by Bright Star Touring Theatre
Best For: All Ages
Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 11:00 AM

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the signing of the 19th Amendment with our show We Can Do It: American Women In History. This is the perfect show to inform and inspire audiences – girls and boys alike! An incredible adventure featuring some of the world’s most remarkable female pioneers, your audience will discover incredible and groundbreaking women like Amelia Earhardt, Sacajawea, Susan B. Anthony and more! Honor the women of America by bringing this show to your venue! 

Find the Study Guide here!


Student Matinee performances at Asheville Community Theatre are exciting and inspiring – they are a great way for your students to experience live theatre!

Our productions and their accompanying study guides support the following NC Essential Standards:
  • Arts Education Essential Standards in Theatre Arts:
    o Use movement, voice, and writing to communicate ideas and feelings. (K-5.C.1)
    o Use performance to communicate ideas and feelings. (K-5.C.2)
    o Analyze literary texts and performances. (K-8.A.1)
    o Understand how to design technical theatre components, such as costumes, sets, props, makeup, lighting, and sound. (K-8.AE.1)
    o Understand the traditions, roles, and conventions of theatre as an art form. (K-8.CU.2)
  • Reading Standards for Literature
    o Key Ideas and Details (K-8)
    o Craft and Structure (K-8)
    o Integration of Knowledge and Ideas (K-8)
  • Writing Standards
    o Text Types and Purposes (K-8)
    o Research to Build and Present Knowledge (K-8)
  • Speaking and Listening Standards
    o Comprehension and Collaboration (K-8)
Teacher guides with class activities will be available to all classes in attendance.

Where do we park? What if it snows? Please download and read out ACT Student Matinee Information Packet before you reserve!


Tickets and Information

Reservations are first come, first serve, and seating is limited. Reservations must be made online. You may receive one (1) complimentary teacher/chaperone ticket with every 20 paid student tickets. Additional teacher/chaperone tickets must be purchased at full price in advance. Bus drivers receive one complimentary ticket upon request. Bus driver comps are in addition to the standard teacher/chaperone comp allotment. Please include all teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers (as well as students!) in your reservation count so that we have a seat for everyone!

Fill out Reservation Form here.

After completing the reservation form, please allow one week for us to process your reservation request. If space is available for your group, you will receive an invoice via email. If space is not available, you will receive a notice that you are on the wait-list. You are more than welcome to contact us at any time with any questions!


Please feel free to call if you have any questions. See you at the theatre!

Cassandra Marcelo, Box Office Manager
Asheville Community Theatre
35 E. Walnut Street
Asheville, NC 28801