Ashe County Little Theatre (ACLT) is a nonprofit community theatre in Ashe County, North Carolina, dedicated to enriching our community through live performance, arts education, and creative opportunities for all ages. We produce a diverse season of plays, musicals, and special performances each year, providing a welcoming platform for local actors, directors, designers, technicians, and volunteers to share their talents both onstage and behind the scenes.
Our roots date back to before 1972, when a small group of theatre lovers came together to perform plays wherever space allowed. A key figure in these early efforts was Mrs. Elizabeth Barlow, an English and journalism teacher at Beaver Creek High School, who helped unite the group and produced many plays by local playwrights. Performances were held in Ashe County schools, with dinner theatre productions staged at the Greenfield Restaurant and Blue Ridge Elementary School. Props, costumes, and set pieces were stored in the basement of the Jon Marc Department Store, known today as Hometown Furniture.
In 1972, the group reorganized, began producing three to four shows a year, and officially became Ashe County Little Theatre. In June 1981, ACLT incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the General Statutes of North Carolina. For more than 50 years, ACLT has remained a vibrant part of the Ashe County community. Today, we proudly call the Ashe Civic Center, “The Home of the ACLT”, our performance space.
ACLT thrives because of community support. We offer ongoing volunteer and acting opportunities for people of all experience levels, fostering creativity, connection, and confidence. Your support helps us continue our legacy, keep theatre accessible, nurture local talent, and bring people together through the shared experience of live theatre.
Fundraisers
ACLT 2026 Performing Arts Camp
Ory Owen Memorial Fund
Donors
Nancy Addington My nephew Ory underestimated his talent and value. He was ahead of his time. We loved him dearly . His al! encompassing talents continued to amaze us. He would be proud to the inspiration of this wonderful program. Love you kiddo, Aunt Nan...
Mike Kotula To the fundraiser: Ory Owen Memorial FundWe want to honor Ory and his family and provide more training for our youth.
Bob and Janet Edsell In Honor of Mike and Jan Kotula in this banner year!🎉🥳
Joanne Kuszaj We look forward to enjoying the new season. We have enjoyed the shows in the past & want to support community theater.
Melissa Edmondson To the fundraiser: Ory Owen Memorial FundI'm honored to have known Ory.