The Lost Colony Roanoke Island
Experience America's oldest unsolved mystery brought to life in a spectacular outdoor drama on Roanoke Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best weather for outdoor theater
The Lost Colony Roanoke Island
Best Time
Best weather for outdoor theater
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience America's oldest unsolved mystery brought to life in a spectacular outdoor drama on Roanoke Island.
"Absolutely wonderful experience!! The actors and set were top notch, and the lighting effects they use are awesome."
🎯 Backstage Pass Worth It
Enhance your experience with a backstage pass to learn more about the show and see behind-the-scenes.
🪑 Best Seats for Effects
Higher seating offers a better view of the immersive special effects that surround the audience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Outdoor Amphitheater
Waterside Theatre
Experience a captivating performance under the stars, with stunning lighting and effects that surround the audience.
The Mystery of Roanoke
Performance narrative
Unravel America's oldest unsolved mystery through compelling storytelling, costumes, and talented actors.
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Stunning Special Effects
Performance
Witness breathtaking lighting and innovative puppetry that bring the historical drama to life.
Native American Representation
Performance
Appreciate the accurate and respectful portrayal of Native American culture and history within the narrative.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Outdoor Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Backstage Pass Worth It
Enhance your experience with a backstage pass to learn more about the show and see behind-the-scenes.
🪑 Best Seats for Effects
Higher seating offers a better view of the immersive special effects that surround the audience.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
The outdoor venue can get humid and attract insects, so come prepared for comfort.
♿ Accessible Seating Options
Inquire about accessible seating and transportation from parking if needed when booking tickets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Backstage Pass Worth It
Enhance your experience with a backstage pass to learn more about the show and see behind-the-scenes.
🪑 Best Seats for Effects
Higher seating offers a better view of the immersive special effects that surround the audience.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
The outdoor venue can get humid and attract insects, so come prepared for comfort.
♿ Accessible Seating Options
Inquire about accessible seating and transportation from parking if needed when booking tickets.
🎭 Talented Cast & Crew
Enjoy the performances of incredibly talented actors and appreciate the dedication of the crew.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Lost Colony for its compelling storytelling, talented cast, and breathtaking special effects, making it a highly recommended experience for all ages. The outdoor amphitheater setting and immersive production are frequently highlighted as major draws, though some note the potential for humidity and insects.
"This is such a great story and great show. I will tell you the back stage pass is worth it. You learn more about. The show and you get to see things that others wish to be able to.
Now the special effects are stunning and I will say there is not a bad seat in the house . The further up you are the more effects you can see and it is stunning. The show happens all around you not just on stage.
There is snacks and beverages for everyone, the bathroom ma are clean and the cast are amazing talented members.
Go enjoy the show !"
Steve Hilsinger
"Absolutely wonderful experience!! The actors and set were top notch, and the lighting effects they use are awesome. I also appreciate the incorporation of the importance of the Native history there."
Melissa Booher
"Incredible venue and production 88 years old for good reason. The story is compelling, the costumes are amazing and the cast is captivating. This is a family friendly environment much more comfortable than I expected, given the location and timing of our visit. If you are on or near the North Carolina Outer Banks, you owe it to yourself to check out the production."
Kevin Kitts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lost Colony is located at 1409 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954, on Roanoke Island. It's easily accessible by car, and Manteo is a short drive from Nags Head.
Yes, there is parking available at the venue. Accessible parking and transportation to the seating area can be arranged if needed.
Yes, you can find accommodations in Manteo or surrounding areas on Roanoke Island that are not directly on the coast, offering a potentially more budget-friendly option.
From US-158 E, take the exit for US-64 E towards Manteo. Continue on US-64 E, which will lead you onto Roanoke Island. Follow signs for The Lost Colony.
While located on Roanoke Island and historically significant, The Lost Colony is an outdoor drama and not directly managed by the National Park Service, though Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official The Lost Colony website or at the box office on-site. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
The Lost Colony is a summer stock theatre production, typically running performances from late May through August. Check their official website for specific showtimes and dates. +1
Ticket prices vary, but booking in advance is advised. Consider looking into package deals or group rates if available.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or children may be available. It's best to check the official website or contact the box office directly for current offers.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the box office. For those with accessibility needs, purchasing at the box office might offer more personalized assistance.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The play tells the story of the first English settlers who vanished from Roanoke Island in 1587, exploring the enduring mystery of their disappearance.
Yes, The Lost Colony is considered a family-friendly production with a compelling story, engaging performances, and impressive visual effects.
The venue is an outdoor amphitheater with seating that offers good views. Higher seats are recommended for better visibility of the surrounding special effects.
Yes, snacks and beverages are available for purchase. The facilities, including restrooms, are generally clean and well-maintained.
The play typically includes an intermission and runs for a duration suitable for an evening's entertainment. Check the official schedule for exact run times.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are restricted during the performance to avoid disrupting the show and other audience members. Check venue policies upon arrival.
The area around the Waterside Theatre and the nearby Fort Raleigh National Historic Site offer scenic opportunities for photos before or after the show.
You can find historical markers and exhibits at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site that relate to the Lost Colony and the early English settlements.
Given restrictions, focus on capturing the atmosphere before or after the show. If permitted, a camera with good low-light capabilities would be beneficial for the outdoor evening setting.
Sometimes cast members are available for photos before or after the performance, especially if they are engaging with the audience in designated areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving a bit early to explore the grounds or enjoy the pre-show atmosphere. While the play itself is family-friendly, parents might want to gauge their children's attention spans for the full performance duration. The nearby attractions like the North Carolina Aquarium and Roanoke Island Festival Park offer additional kid-approved activities for a full day of family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on concession costs during the performance. Exploring the free historical sites like Fort Raleigh National Historic Site before or after the show can also add value to your visit without extra cost.
🏛️ History Buffs
+2Complement your theater experience with a visit to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, which preserves the area where the colony was established. Here, you can learn more about the historical context, archaeological efforts, and the ongoing search for clues about the settlers' fate.
Engaging with the historical narratives presented both in the play and at the fort will provide a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in early American history.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Mystery of Roanoke
+3Numerous theories attempt to explain their disappearance, ranging from assimilation with local Native American tribes like the Croatan, to disease, starvation, or even conflict with other European powers. The mystery of Roanoke Island continues to intrigue historians and the public alike, fueling ongoing research and speculation.
+1The outdoor drama, The Lost Colony, brings this compelling narrative to life each summer. It aims to explore the historical context, the challenges faced by the settlers, and the various theories surrounding their fate, offering a dramatic interpretation of this foundational American mystery.
The Theatrical Experience
Audiences consistently praise the stunning special effects, particularly the innovative use of lighting that creates a magical and atmospheric setting. The production also features impressive puppetry and choreography, bringing elements of nature and the historical narrative to vivid life. The cast, comprised of talented actors, delivers captivating performances that keep the audience engaged throughout the show.
Beyond the spectacle, the play emphasizes the importance of Native American representation, striving for accuracy and respect in depicting the interactions between the English settlers and the indigenous peoples of the region. This commitment to historical nuance, combined with the sheer artistry of the production, makes The Lost Colony play Manteo NC a unique and memorable cultural experience.
Exploring Roanoke Island
Visitors can also experience the charm of Manteo, NC, a picturesque waterfront town known for its quaint shops, restaurants, and historic architecture. The Elizabethan Gardens offer a serene escape with beautifully maintained flora, and the North Carolina Aquarium provides engaging exhibits for all ages.
Don't miss the Mother Vine, believed to be the oldest grape vine in North America, planted by either Native Americans or early settlers. This ancient vine is a living testament to the island's long history and ecological significance.
Social
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