Learn more about The Lost Colony and RIHA.
RIHA Mission
The Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) is a non-profit and the producing organization of The Lost Colony. Founded on January 8, 1932 the mission statement is: “The mission of the Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA) is to commemorate the history of the first English colonies in North America on Roanoke Island, North Carolina. This mission is primarily accomplished by the annual production of the symphonic outdoor drama as well as through educationally engaging events and also programs.” View current RIHA board of directors.
The history and present production of The Lost Colony
First performed on July 4th, 1937, The Lost Colony is a proud recipient of the 2013 Tony Honor for Excellence in Theatre. This year’s production of the symphonic drama is Jeff Whiting’s third season as director. The reimagined production features a new version of the historic story, however, adapted from Pulitzer Prize Winning playwright Paul Green’s original script.
Each summer, over 100 actors, technicians, designers and volunteer transform Waterside theatre. The production is enormous. The stage itself is over three times larger than most Broadway stages in New York. You are seated in our open-air theatre, located on the Roanoke Sound, with the stars above while live action happening on three sides of you. In 2013 the production won a Tony Award. In 2021 many upgrades were done including; lighting, special effects including 3D mapping, as well as new musical score and enhancements to the story. Witness the pageantry of the Queen and her court and celebrate the birth of Virginia Dare. There is music, laughter, romance and dance.
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If you have seen The Lost Colony in the past-it is time to see it again! You will be blown away by the staging, lighting and effects. Reserve your tickets to experience the reimagined The Lost Colony!