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Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Talent: Gaston County’s Theater & Adventure Guide

  • Writer: Kayla Adams
    Kayla Adams
  • 7d
  • 4 min read

Actors on stage in period costumes, standing on and around a wooden staircase under bright stage lights. Mood is intense and dramatic.

Experience the magic of live theater in Gaston County, where each show is just the beginning of your adventure. Pair your play with unforgettable dining and one-of-a-kind shopping for a night (or day!) to remember. Each town offers its own unique charm, so whether you're catching a show in Gastonia, Belmont, Cherryville, or Kings Mountain, make time to explore the cozy shops, trendy boutiques, and local eateries that make Gaston County a true gem. Here’s your guide to the theaters and standout performances lighting up the season.



Gastonia


Little Theater of Gastonia


Little Theater of Gastonia has been a community gem since 1950, blending a mix of dramas, comedies, and musicals each season with local talent. Located just outside downtown Gastonia, this community theater is perfect for an evening out.


Before or After the Show

Try Webb Custom Kitchen or Barristers for upscale dining, or go casual at Pita Wheel or Viva Taqueria and Cantina. If you're into craft beverages, follow the Ridgeline Craft Beverage Trail with stops at Durty Bull Brewery, Cavendish Brewing Company, or Keepsake Brewery.


Upcoming Performances

  • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Family-friendly, G-rated musical about the unruly Herdman kids who crash a small-town holiday pageant and transform it in unexpected ways. December 5-14, 2025

  • Seussical the Musical – whimsical musical based on the stories of Dr. Seuss, Seussical the Musical features beloved characters like Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and Jojo the Who. February 20 - March 1, 2026

  • August: Osage County – A powerful and darkly comedic drama centered around the Weston family as secrets, addiction, and grief collide in their Oklahoma homestead. April 10-19, 2026

  • And Then There Were None – Adapted from Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, this PG-rated mystery follows ten strangers trapped on a remote island as they’re picked off one by one in a chilling, suspense-filled race to uncover the killer. May 22-31, 2026


  • Beetlejuice Jr. – This energetic, family‑friendly production features catchy songs, quirky humor, and a bold visual style perfect for middle and high school audiences. June 11-12, 2026


  • A Year with Frog and Toad Kids – Based on the beloved children’s books by Arnold Lobel. June 13-14, 2026


  • Shrek The Musical, Jr. – A lively and playful musical based on DreamWorks’ hit film. June 27-28, 2026

  • The Hunchback of Notre Dame - Adapted from Victor Hugo’s classic, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a grand, emotionally powerful musical by Peter Parnell, Alan Menken, and Stephen Schwartz, set in 15th-century Paris. July 24 - August 2, 2026


Cherryville


Cherryville Little Theater


The Cherryville Little Theater is a small-town gem near downtown Cherryville. Here, you can explore local shops, admire historic buildings, and soak up the area's charm.


Before or After the Show

Dine at Cherry Pit or Five Spur Steakhouse and browse eclectic shops on Main Street. For a sweet treat, don't miss Fuzzy Cow. Cherryville's historic architecture and vibrant arts scene make this town a delightful place to explore.


Upcoming Performances

  • Irving Berlin's White Christmas – Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. December 4-7, 2025

  • Deadline – This play is a witty, suspenseful mystery–thriller that traps eight writers on a foggy island for a high-stakes “perfect murder” challenge where the victim—and the killer—are still unknown. February 20-28, 2026

  • We Will Rock You – More information to come in 2026. June 12-21, 2026



Belmont


Belmont Abbey College


The Haid Theater at Belmont Abbey College adds another layer to the artistic community in Gaston County, offering performances ranging from student-led shows to community events. While in Belmont, experience a taste of the town's vibrant dining scene and small-town allure.


Before or After the Show

Belmont has dining options to suit every palate. Visit Old Stone Steakhouse, Nellies Southern Kitchen, Marrelli's Italian or  for elevated eats, or try Sammy's Pub, String Bean, or Stone Fired Social for a relaxed vibe. Stroll along Main Street to browse local boutiques and galleries.


Upcoming Performances



Kings Mountain


Joy Performance Center


A historic landmark, Joy Performance Center opened in 1949 and now serves as the home of the Kings Mountain Little Theatre. Located in the heart of Kings Mountain, this theater experience is ideal for pairing with dining and activities in the downtown area.


Before or After the Show

Stroll downtown to shop at 139 Clothing Boutique, a boutique with beer and wine options, or stop by The Sweet Station for ice cream, cake, and board games. Nearby, you can enjoy Crave Hot Dog and BBQ, 133 West, or 238 Cherokee Grill. Want to stretch your legs? Walk at Patriots Park or enjoy a scenic wine tasting at Veronet Vineyards.


Upcoming Performances

  • Murder on the Orient Express – This play is a classic whodunit thriller, following Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder aboard the snowbound Orient Express in a suspenseful, darkly humorous, twist-filled stage adaptation. February 20-28, 2026

  • Alice in Wonderland – This play is a whimsical, family-friendly fantasy adventure that brings Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland to life with imaginative storytelling, iconic characters, and vibrant visual wonder. April 17-26, 2026

  • 1776 – This play is a lively, history-rich musical that brings the signing of the Declaration of Independence to life with sharp wit, memorable songs, and a dynamic look at the personalities behind America’s founding. June 19-28, 2026



Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting, Gaston County's theaters offer entertainment and adventure. Make an adventure with dinner, a show, and a bit of exploring, and discover the charm of this vibrant county! With options like these, you can turn any theater trip into a memorable time out in Gaston County.

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