In 1587, 117 men, women, and children departed from Devon, England to start a new Colony on the shores of modern-day North Carolina. Governor John White leads this new colony, and they eventually settle on Roanoke Island. The colony thrives, but tensions between the Natives and the colony begin to escalate. In August of 1587, John White’s daughter gives birth to Virginia Dare, who becomes the first English Child born on American soil. Shortly after his granddaughter’s birth, Governor White returns to England to gather more supplies for the Colony. His return to Roanoke is delayed due to an English war with Spain, and when he finally returns to Roanoke Island three years later the colony has vanished, leaving only the letters “CRO” carved into a tree.

Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Paul Green, The Lost Colony has told the true story of this 400 year-old mystery on the site where these events occurred since 1937, and 2022 marks our 85th anniversary season. Located within Ft. Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island in Manteo, North Carolina, the show has been seen by Presidents, Governors, and over 4 million patrons. The Lost Colony is an essential part of your Outer Banks experience and is a spectacle not to be missed. With a stage three times bigger than most Broadway stages, experience epic battles, grand dances, award-winning costumes, and a timeless story of struggle and hope. The Waterside Theatre is not only home to The Lost Colony but is also one of the most stunning outdoor venues in live theatre. The stage is feet away from the shore of the Roanoke Sound, and being on the north end of Roanoke Island means that patrons get to experience a gorgeous sunset that lights up the sky just as the show begins.

Our 85th anniversary season, which runs from May 27th-August 20th, is going to be an exciting one, and there are several ways to upgrade your experience. Backstage tours are available, which give patrons an in-depth look at how the show is produced every night and dives deep into the history of the production. For groups over 15, special group rates are available, and a Guest Experience Ambassador will greet you with your tickets and personally escort you to your seats. For info, call 252-473-4222 or email mgabbard@thelostcolony.org. Make sure you mention Bus Tour Magazine when you call!