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    The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama

    the lost colony queen elizabeth i
    Date:
    Time:
    -
    Location:
    1409 National Park Drive
    Venue:
    Waterside Theatre
    Link:
    Event Link
    Map:
    View map

    Proud Sponsor

    Details about The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama

    Price:

    • The Lost Colony ticket pricing varies: Elite $40; Premier: $35; Fine: $25
    • FREE for kids 5 and under
    • 50% off adult ticket price for kids 6-12
    • FREE for kids 12 and under on Monday nights

    Ages:

    • All ages welcome!

    Pets:

    • Only service animals are allowed on the premises. Please check with the box office to help accommodate your service animal.

    The Outer Banks Lost Colony Outdoor Drama: June 4-August 22, 2026

    The Lost Colony is a welcoming, family-friendly night out that’s got a little something for everyone, from enthusiastic kids and parents to theatre fans and history lovers. Set on Roanoke Island at the beautiful Waterside Theatre, this outdoor show mixes storytelling, music, dance, and wow-worthy special effects to bring early American history to life in a fun, easy-to-enjoy way. Before the show, you can catch a Native-inspired pre-show performance, explore a behind-the-scenes backstage tour, or grab snacks and drinks from the concession stand as the sun sets over the sound. Whether you’re there for a breezy evening of entertainment, a love of the stage, or curiosity about the Roanoke story, the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere invites audiences of all ages to sit back, take in the view, and enjoy a memorable night under the stars.

    The Waterside Theater on the Outer Banks

    History of The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama

    The Lost Colony is one of America’s longest-running outdoor symphonic dramas, first premiering in 1937 on Roanoke Island. Written by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Paul Green and created during the Great Depression as part of a cultural effort to boost local pride and tourism, the drama has been performed almost every summer since its debut at the Waterside Theatre. It blends live acting, music, dance, and elaborate staging to bring early American history to life.

    A scene from the Outer Banks outdoor drama, The Lost Colony

    What to Expect at The Lost Colony

    This highly orchestrated production tells the captivating story of the first English attempt at colonization in America, tracing the voyage from Devon, England, led by Governor John White in 1587, the settlement on Roanoke Island, and the colonists’ encounters with the Algonquin Native Americans. Shortly after arriving, the colony’s leader, Governor John White, sailed back to England to gather much-needed supplies, but war kept him away for three long years. When he finally made it back to Roanoke Island, the settlement had completely vanished. Most compelling is the unexplained disappearance of the 117 men, women, and children who had made a home on the island; they were simply gone, leaving behind only the cryptic word “CRO” carved into a tree. No one knows exactly what happened, and that mystery is part of what keeps the story so fascinating. The play has grown into a time-honored Outer Banks tradition, drawing in generations of visitors and continuing to evolve with modern production touches while holding onto its original sense of storytelling, history, and intrigue.

    A performer from The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama on the Outer Banks

    The Native American pre-show is a great way to kick off the evening, expect a mix of drumming, singing, and storytelling, along with a variety of tribal dances. Performed by members of the Native cast, you’ll see everything from the high-spirited rhythms of Plains powwow-style dance to the more rooted, storytelling movements of Eastern Woodland traditions. It’s not just fun to watch—it also gives you a better understanding of the history and meaning behind the music and dances.

    Characters from The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama including Queen Elizabeth I

    Explore The Waterside Theater with a Backstage Tour

    The Lost Colony backstage tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring the show to life. During the tour, you may walk through set pieces and stage areas, visit the spot where a U.S. president once watched the performance, learn how swords and armor are polished and maintained, and even watch a boat make its way into the harbor as part of the production. The experience often includes a closer look at costumes and historical details, along with stories about the actors and crew who bring the show together each night. It’s a fun, engaging experience that offers a whole new appreciation for the work and creativity behind the scenes.

    The Waterside Theater where The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama performance takes place

    See You There!

    Tickets can be purchased online or at The Lost Colony Box Office. It’s recommended that tickets be purchased in advance to ensure seating availability. Whether you’re seeing The Lost Colony outdoor drama for the first time or you’re returning to see what new changes have been implemented for this year’s season, you’re in for a treat. Get ready to be immersed in the history, mystery, and visual magic of The Lost Colony!