Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Staged under the stars in the 2,100-seat outdoor Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee, NC, Unto These Hills is one of the longest-running outdoor dramas in the United States. Written by American playwright Kermit Hunter and produced by the Cherokee Historical Association since 1950, this powerful play brings to life the poignant and triumphant history of the Cherokee people.
Mountainside Theatre, 688 Drama Road, Cherokee, NC 28719
Summer season (typically runs late May through mid-August; nightly performances except Sundays)
8:00 PM (Gates open at 7:00 PM)
Approximately 2 hours with an intermission
~$35–$40 General Admission | ~$20–$25 Children (Ages 6–12) | Free for children 5 and under (Reserved seating and VIP packages available)
Wheelchair-accessible seating and accessible shuttle services up to the amphitheater are available
The drama traces the history of the Cherokee people from their peak ancestral homelands in the Southern Appalachians, through European contact and treaty betrayals, to the tragic forced removal known as the Trail of Tears in 1838.
Highlights influential historical figures who fought to protect Cherokee land and sovereignty, including Chief Junaluska, Tsali, and William Holland Thomas.
Features live traditional music, elaborate period costumes, authentic Cherokee dance performances, and dramatic battle reenactments under the night sky.
Perched high on the hillside, the open-air theater provides natural acoustic resonance surrounded by mountain forest, making for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
Mountain evenings can get cool once the sun sets over the Smokies, even during summer months.
Stadium-style wooden bench seating is used throughout the amphitheater; seat cushions are available for rent on-site or you may bring your own.
Shows generally go on rain or shine (ponchos are available for purchase), but performances may be delayed or paused in the event of severe weather.