Horn celebrates big opening weekend

The Horn has sounded, and the call was answered by visitors from both far and wide.

On June 18, 19 and 20, Horn in the West celebrated its 59th opening season to more than 1,200 visitors.

The opening was commemorated by speeches from dignitaries from the state, including U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx, N.C. Rep. Cullie Tarleton, Boone Mayor Loretta Clawson and Watauga County commission vice chairman William Ralph Winkler III.

With an enthusiastic and supportive audience, the actors, technical assistants and all contributing members of the drama were able to showcase their hard work and talent.

The opening show on Friday, June 18, pulled together close to 600 audience members, the largest opening night in many years. Audience members came from North Carolina, as well as far-away states, such as New Jersey, and neighboring-states, such as Georgia, and as far as overseas.

Watauga County residents also showed their pride and support for Horn in the West, while taking advantage of discounted tickets through the "County Nights" program offered. The amphitheater saw a record amount of Watauga County residents on an opening night.

"We are all so proud of the turn-out this weekend," said Virginia Roseman, director of public relations for the Southern Appalachian Historical Association. "We are grateful to have the opportunity to share all our talents and hard-work with as many people as possible, and this simply could not happen without the amazing support seen."

Before the show, audience members were able to enjoy the Hickory Ridge Homestead Living History Museum, as the volunteer docents in period attire demonstrated the daily lives of settlers. Visitors were given flintlock rifle demonstrations, as well as tours of each of the historic cabins on site. The homestead helped provide first-time visitors with a better understanding of the lives of characters within the show.

And Watauga residents who missed opening weekend needn't fear. Wataugans can enjoy the discounted tickets again during closing weekend, Aug. 12, 13 and 14. Residents from other counties across the state are also eligible for a discount through "County Nights" and should call to find out your qualifying weekend.

Horn in the West is the nation's oldest Revolutionary War outdoor drama. This project was supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. It was supported by the North Carolina Arts Council with funding from the state of North Carolina. The drama runs June 18 through Aug. 14 at 8 p.m. on Tuesday through Sunday.

An all-you-can-eat modified dinner catered by the local Dan'l Boone Inn is offered at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings by reservation only. To learn more, find out if you qualify for discounts, and order all tickets call (828) 264-2120 or visit online at http://www.horninthewest.com.