The Montford Park Players — Attraction in Asheville

Brava!! A detailed review, plus nine juicy tips on how to make the most of your experience.

We’ve been going here for several years, first with our young children, then they were teens and now as empty-nesters. We have never had an experience that was not delightful. Of course, the quality of the shows varied, depending on actor, director etc., but we have never seen a show that was bad. We’ve seen shows they were good, shows that were great, and shows that were excellent! Bonus that several people we know in the community are actors, directors, and writers in various shows. From my son’s high school English teacher to neighbors and colleagues and friends, it’s always fun to see friends represented on stage and behind the scenes!

We also value and respect the interpretations of the shows. We’ve seen shows interpreted in very modern takes, very southern takes, etc. all delightful.

Tips: if the show is either opening night or closing night, I would recommend going early. Parking is very very very difficult, and if you go early, you have a better chance to park!

Most of the shows have wonderful actors that you can very clearly hear, but there are a few actor’s voices that are softer. I would suggest sitting central to the stage and upfront when possible.

Bring some cash to tip the players during halftime. I think they also accept Venmo now, so that would be fine, but there’s nothing like throwing a bunch of cash in the bucket! Remember, this is a nonprofit!

You can bring your own chairs and set up a picnic and bring wine and food and a blanket. (I’ve seen people literally bring in fine China and linen tablecloths). Or…. If you don’t feel like lugging your own chairs, you can pay a small fee and have some chairs reserved for you. They are Adirondack and they are very comfortable. They will have your names on them when you arrive. They are upfront in the first five or six rows. Reserve these chairs on their website.

Either put on bug spray beforehand, or bring a little bug spray with you. Also, bring a blanket. The Asheville mountain nights tend to cool off in the evening.

Hop up right away if you need to go to the bathroom right as intermission starts, or there will be a long line for the ladies room!

Even though you can bring your own food, check out the local vendors, they have liquor flavored ice cream, and all sorts of wonderful other local vendors!

Please remember, this is a live performance. While dogs are welcome, and certainly children are encouraged, I’ve seen children sit in a different row from their parents and talk loudly through the whole show. I’ve also seen dogs wander over to somebody’s area and eat out of a neighbor’s basket. Just be mindful of other folks; even though it outside and feels like things can be a bit more free-range, please do respect the fact that it is live theater.

Don’t forget to look up at the night sky and enjoy the...

ATTENTION!!!!! All visitor's, vacationers, tourists and locals. This is I repeat, this is a must see local attraction that is hands down fantastic. Nice outdoor theatre, and great acting. The actor's do an outstanding professional job in these live play's, and don't get paid for it, but really enjoy the work they do. I really enjoyed seeing Robin Hood recently, the show was worthy of paying to see it. The performances are supported by voluntary donations, as well as local sponsors. I also like the fan interaction, you can also bring your own picnic and get a great view of all the action. There's not a bad seat in the house no matter what angle. Do keep in mind though that there could be a few rude speculators who are inconsiderate of everyone else around them, and who don't follow the keep the center aisle clear rule. Overall I still look forward to returning, and highly recommend the Montford Park Player's if you are looking for that one of a kind unique outdoor theatre and live play experience, the closest thing we have to a La Comedia dinner theatre, which the Asheville area still needs I'll add as a little side note to...

We ALWAYS have a terrific time watching the players. I love observing the ebb and flow of individual participants. My family has been visiting the performances of the Montford Park Players for a few years and one starts to feel connected to their particular brand of demonstration. Because of the support they appear to offer one another and the welcoming atmosphere of the Theater, attending tends to feel like home. Performances are a treat for any age, and vary to meet audience members at any level of Shakespearean experience. Because shows are free they do a bit of campaigning before, between and after sets but never a sense of pressure coinciding. I recommend reserving a seat. It's three dollars to hold your place and the plastic Adirondack chairs are far more comfortable than the ground. Also, there are always vendors ready to deal out tasty snacks and local artisan treats. If your short on funds tho, make this event a picnic! Just remember that attendees often bring their fur babies so guard your yummies or...