Hayes Auditorium at Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC.
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable musical journey at FORUM, an 8-week concert series that brings national entertainment right to the stunning mountains of Banner Elk, North Carolina! From June 14 to August 2, Hayes Auditorium at Lees-McRae College will come alive with enchanting performances at
5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
National Artists
Mountain Venue
About FORUM
What sets FORUM apart? It's the amazing collaboration between seasonal residents, locals, and the vibrant community of Lees-McRae College! Our dedicated FORUM Board of Directors proudly represents these groups, fostering a rich cultural tapestry that has attracted over 800 season ticket members last year alone.
Founded in 1979 by a passionate group of summer residents, FORUM has a proud history of enhancing our community’s cultural landscape. Guided by the support of Lees-McRae College—FORUM is thrilled to celebrate its 47th year of delivering enriching and wholesome entertainment.
Our program selection process is truly one-of-a-kind! We handpick our performances through valued connections with both local residents and national talent agents. The Program Selection Committee, carefully sifts through more than 50 candidates each year to curate just 12 exceptional programs, ensuring a delightful variety of vocalists, music groups, Big Band and brass ensembles, pianists, and tribute artists.
What’s more? FORUM is a non-profit organization, and every ticket you purchase or membership you secure goes back into our community—not only enhancing the following season's programming but also supporting scholarships for deserving Theatre Arts majors at Lees-McRae College.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this vibrant celebration of music and culture! Secure your tickets today, and let’s make this summer one to remember at FORUM!
Summer 2026 Lineup
June 14
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June 21
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June 28
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July 5
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July 12
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7 Bridges - Eagles
July 29
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July 26
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August 2
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2026 FORUM Ticket Options
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Platinum Package —
Reserved seating for all 8 shows plus dedicated close parking for Platinum members. Priority renewal opportunity.
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Gold Package —
Tickets to all 8 performances at an exceptional season value.
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Single Show Tickets —
Admission to individual concerts.
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All FORUM tickets are non-refundable. Packages and seating are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where to pick up tickets
To keep ticket costs low, we do not operate a daily box office. Instead, tickets may be picked up at a few scheduled times.
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Forum box office will be open from 4:00 PM to 8:45 PM every Monday during the Forum season, June 15–August 3. You can also choose to print at home to avoid having to pick up.
Parking Information
Platinum members receive premium parking in: May School Lot, Chaffee Lots, and next to the Hayes Auditorium
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​Accessible Handicap parking is available in the Hayes Parking Lot
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Open parking is available near Avery Hall, and street parking in downtown Banner Elk
Board Members and Committees
From our esteemed board members to our dedicated selection committees, meet the passionate individuals who curate unforgettable music experiences.
Executive Committee
President: French Harvey
Vice President: Steve Gragg
Secretary: Claire Curtis
Treasurer: Rosemary Rose
Member at Large: Mark Nixon
Governance and Nominating Chair: Lisa Goldberg
Program Selection Committee:
Mark Nixon (Chair), Debbie Nixon, Barbara O'Connell, Jim O'Connell, Larry Pitt, Renee Pitt, Bill Scaringe, Rosemary Scaringe, Suzanne Lasky Gerard, Carolyn Wignes, Ron Wignes
Marketing Committee:
Dick McAllister (Chair), Roxanne Mann, Diane Cunningham, Rick Cunningham, Ann Wolf, Jim O'Connell, Kristine Stuckey
Area Representatives:
Dick McAllister (Coordinator), Lydia Daniel (Linville Ridge), Mary LePage (Sugar Top), Roxanne Mann (Mountain Glen), Jim and Barbara O’Connell (Beech Mountain), OPEN(Banner Elk), Jan Solares (Elk River), Ann Wolf (Grandfather Mountain), Fran Hannah and Claire Curtis (Hound Ears), Gene and Diana Cope (Land Harbor), Richard Corning "At Large"
Governance and Nominating:
Lisa Goldberg (Chair), Lydia Daniel, Nancy Hoyt, Gail Applerouth, Jan Solares
Budget Committee:
Rosemary Rose (Chair), French Harvey, Mark Nixon, Steve Gragg, Kristine Stuckey
Platinum Seat Cover Chair:
Rosemary Scaringe
Restaurant Discount Coordinator:
Rosemary Scaringe
Chief Greeter:
Murray Miller
Performance Volunteer Coordinator:
Richard Corning​
Ticketing Committee:
Gail Applerouth (Chair), Rosemary Rose, Fran Hannah, Kristine Stuckey, Abby Gulledge
Sound Committee:
Steve Gragg (Chair), Jim O'Connell, Mark Nixon
Parking Committee:
Steve Gragg (Chair), Rick Cunningham, Bill Scaringe
Social Committee:
Julie Harvey (Chair), Joan Barber
Lees-McRae Representatives:
Blaine Hansen (Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer)
Lisa Bowling (Vice President of Advancement)
Abby Gulledge (Event Coordinator)
Local Dining Discounts
We’re pleased to announce that several local restaurants are partnering with us to offer a 10% discount to Forum patrons on Monday nights, both before and after the concerts. It’s a great way to enjoy a full evening in the community while supporting our wonderful local businesses.
To receive the discount, simply present your concert ticket at any of the participating restaurants listed below. The full list is also attached for your convenience:
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Banner Elk Cafe - 324 Shawneehaw Ave S, Banner Elk, NC
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Bayou Banner Elk -130 Main St E, Banner Elk, NC
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Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant – 3585 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC
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China House Restaurant – 3581 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC
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Highlander’s Grill and Tavern – 4527 Tynecastle Hwy, Seven Devils, NC
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Luna Thai and Sushi Restaurant – 3990 NC-105, Linville, NC
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Nguyen’s Asian Grill – 2015 Tynecastle Hwy Ste. B, Banner Elk, NC
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Puerto Nuevo Mexican Restaurant - Banner Elk: 2941 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC
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Puerto Nuevo Mexican Restaurant - Newland: 110 Linville St, Newland, NC
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Sorrento’s Italian Bistro – 140 Azalea Cir SE, Banner Elk, NC
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The Pedalin’ Pig – 4235 NC-105, Banner Elk, NC
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Uncle Lee’s Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar – 488 Main St W, Banner Elk, NC​
We hope this special offering adds a little extra joy to your Forum evenings.
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