Horn in the West Outdoor Drama in Boone, NC

Horn in the West Outdoor Drama in Boone NC © Katrena

Horn in the West is America's oldest Revolutionary War drama, depicting struggles faced by Daniel Boone and local settlers called "Regulators" as they fight for freedom from British authorities and Governor William Tryon. Many families and individuals find themselves involved in these battles, whether by choice or by circumstance.

Daniel Boone in Horn in the West 2017 © Katrena

I purchased tickets online for this show and found the system to work well. If you have children, you'll find the discounted rate at check-out. The online system allows you to select and purchase your chosen seats and print tickets at home.

Fun Things to Do in Boone NC © Katrena

Much of the action takes place in the center portion of the stage, but several scenes also occur on the sides near the front stage. The left side includes a revolving set that may change between scenes. The right side includes several fight scenes. The seating area slants upward as you walk away from the stage, so I would think any seat would provide a good view.

Fun Family Activities in Boone © Katrena

This show features multiple fight scenes. Although we were expecting some fight scenes, that first gunshot about made all of us jump out of our skin! The later fight scenes gave way to a bit more emotion as the audience began to learn more about the characters and connect with them.

Outdoor Drama in Watauga County NC © Katrena

Horn in the West also includes several dance numbers and singing. We arrived about 45 minutes before the start time and enjoyed a brief preview of singing by a few of the actors. We also met several of the young actors before the show. We were surprised to learn that many of the adult actors were from other states, as far away as Maine and Arkansas!

Learn About the Revolutionary War Through Theatre © Katrena

Several scenes were also funny! I loved the way many of the actors brought their characters to life and added their own flair to the part. The cast is quite large, and many of the actors played multiple roles with lots of quick changes in between.

Horn in the West in Boone © Katrena

The show delves into quite a few ethical dilemmas. For example, a dedicated British doctor came to the area to study smallpox only to realize that his teenage son had become sympathetic to the colonists and their cause. A preacher also had to take a long and hard look at whether or not he would bear arms.

Interesting Ways to Learn About History © Katrena

Some scenes also introduced Cherokee characters and their struggle to continue to live on the land native to their people. As smallpox ravaged many people in the area, these indigenous peoples were forced to ask for help from the very people who threatened their existence.

Meet and Greet at Horn in the West © Katrena

After the show, the audience was invited to come up onto stage and interact with the actors. I was impressed with how friendly these actors were after the show. They sell playbills/programs with information about some of the people involved with the show that the actors will gladly autograph!

Learn About Colonial Life at Horn in the West © Katrena

I think for me one of the take-home messages of this play was a greater appreciation for the sacrifices people made for our freedom. War is fraught with many tough decisions and much heartbreak. Reading about the Revolutionary War and looking at statistics does not bring history to life like seeing it acted out on stage.

Travel Ideas for Western North Carolina © Katrena

Those interested in learning more about this time in history may wish to visit the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum before the show. Visitors can visit various cabins set up to resemble a small community and learn about the history of the area and how settlers of the time would spend a typical day through interpreters in period clothing.

Outdoor Dramas in Western North Carolina © Katrena

Visit the Horn in the West official site for ticket information, directions, times, history, and more. Thanks for visiting Travel NC With Kids. You may also wish to read some of my other articles, including another outdoor drama in NC and nearby things to do such as:

• The Lost Colony Outdoor Drama in Roanoke, NC
• Mount Jefferson State Natural Area - Beautiful View!
• Linville Caverns - Enjoy North Carolina's Only Show Cave