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 incredible national entertainment right to the stunning mountains of Banner Elk, North Carolina! From June 15 to August 3, 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
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June 15
A breathtaking fusion of classical crossover, Broadway, and timeless popular music.
Aria Nouveau brings spectacular new energy to the classical crossover genre, led by soprano Laura Auer (Top-10 Billboard-charting albums, VH1/Lifestyle Network features, symphony appearances) and tenor John Riesen (America’s Got Talent finalist, Lincoln Center soloist, 4+ million Spotify streams).
Their concert blends crossover favorites (“The Prayer,” “Amigos Para Siempre”), Broadway hits (“Music of the Night,” “Bring Him Home”), operatic classics (“Nessun Dorma,” “Quando me’n vo’”), and popular standards made famous by icons like Nat King Cole, Celine Dion, and Tony Bennett.
Beautifully arranged and emotionally rich, Aria Nouveau offers a sweeping musical experience full of elegance, artistry, and unforgettable vocals — a perfect evening for music lovers of every generation.
June 22
A joyful journey through the greatest duets in modern music.
Award-winning vocalists and multi-instrumentalists Annalyse McCoy and Ryan Dunn bring more than 50 years of combined stage experience to this lively tribute to iconic duet hits. From Nashville to New York City — including Lincoln Center and Opry City Stage — their careers and chemistry shine in every note.
Featuring favorites from the ’60s to today (“I Got You Babe,” “Islands in the Stream,” “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” “Shallow,” “Need You Now,” and more), the show blends pop, country, and rock with rich harmonies, engaging stories, and irresistible energy.
Heartfelt and uplifting, Decades in Duet celebrates love, partnership, and the timeless songs that define generations.
June 29
The sound, spirit, and energy of Billy Joel brought to life.
Led by pianist and vocalist Mike Santoro, The Stranger delivers one of the most authentic Billy Joel tribute experiences in the country. With outstanding musicianship, spot-on vocals, and decades of combined performance experience, this Charlotte-based band captures the sound and style of Joel in his prime.
Audiences can expect favorite hits like “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” “New York State of Mind,” and more — along with the energy, storytelling, and showmanship that define every Billy Joel performance.
Dynamic, engaging, and crowd-pleasing from the first note to the last, The Stranger offers a powerful night of classic songwriting and unforgettable live entertainment.
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July 6
A celebrated North Carolina orchestra returns to FORUM.
For nearly 60 years, the Western Piedmont Symphony has enriched the region with dynamic, high-quality symphonic music. Under the direction of Maestro Matthew Troy, the orchestra is known for engaging performances, innovative programming, and a mission to make classical music accessible and relevant to today’s audiences.
A FORUM favorite for more than a decade, WPS now returns with a powerful evening of orchestral artistry showcasing the depth and versatility of this beloved ensemble.
July 13
The sound, stories, and spirit of Fleetwood Mac.
StevieMac delivers a stunning tribute to the legends of Fleetwood Mac, recreating the band’s most iconic performances and unforgettable hits — along with the solo careers of Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie, and Lindsey Buckingham.
Complete with authentic harmonies, storytelling, period styling, and multimedia elements, this immersive production transports audiences through the decades of Fleetwood Mac’s musical legacy.
A nostalgic, high-energy celebration of one of the greatest bands of all time.
Southern Cross
July 20
Timeless harmonies. Classic songwriting. Pure nostalgia.
For more than a decade, Southern Cross has toured the country performing the music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young with remarkable precision — from the tight vocal blends to the intricate musicianship that defined the Laurel Canyon sound.
Audiences can expect favorites such as “Love the One You’re With,” “Woodstock,” and “Southern Cross,” along with select solo hits including Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” and Stephen Stills’ “Treetop Flyer.”
Authentic, heartfelt, and musically outstanding, Southern Cross celebrates the spirit and legacy of one of America’s most influential supergroups.
July 27
Featuring Evil Woman — The American ELO
This multimedia concert brings the unforgettable music of Electric Light Orchestra to life with stunning detail and electrifying musicianship. Featuring Evil Woman — The American ELO, the performance blends lush strings, rock rhythms, and signature harmonies that capture the sound and spirit of the original recordings.
Audiences will hear favorites like “Mr. Blue Sky,” “Telephone Line,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” and “Evil Woman,” performed by a remarkable 12-piece ensemble known for its precision, energy, and artistry.
A vibrant, immersive celebration of one of rock’s most innovative and enduring bands.
August 3
Tropical vibes. Timeless hits. Pure escapism.
Margaritas in Paradise brings the island spirit of Jimmy Buffett to life with an upbeat, high-energy concert experience filled with sunshine, storytelling, and singalong favorites. From “Margaritaville” to “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” the show celebrates the music, humor, and laid-back lifestyle that made Buffett a legend.
With colorful staging, lively musicianship, and a welcoming party atmosphere, Margaritas in Paradise delivers a feel-good evening that invites audiences to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Board Members and Committees
From our esteemed board members to our dedicated selection committees, meet the passionate individuals who curate unforgettable music experiences.
Executive Board
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
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
Sponsorship Coordinator:
Rosemary Scaringe
Chief Greeter:
Murray Miller
Performance Volunteer Coordinator:
Richard Corning​
Area Representatives:
Dick McAllister (Coordinator), Lydia Daniel (Linville Ridge), Mary LePage (Sugar Mountain), 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"
Ticketing Committee:
Gail Applerouth (Chair), Rosemary Rose, Fran Hannah, Kristine Stuckey
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)
Kristine Stuckey (Director of Events and Conferences)
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