By Appalachians Color Hat

The Mountain Misfits Theatre Company was born out of two artists’ recognition of limited opportunity to both create and earn a living without leaving the mountains of Southwest Virginia. Through years of conversation and connection with other artists within the region, it was found that a large number of creatives shared a desire to remain local but were uncertain that they could survive while doing what they loved. Thus, the idea to start a regional, Appalachian, traveling theatre was born. An opportunity for local artists to create and share performances while uplifting small local theatres without placing the financial strain of paying high costs upfront on existing theatre spaces. This focus on creating a theatre company that brings productions directly to local venues rather than obtaining a building in a single locale is central to the misfits’ goal of utilizing existing structure, materials, and expertise to make the arts accessible and affordable. Mountain Misfits Theatre Company looks to bring high quality theatrical experiences, created by Appalachians for Appalachians, to each of the corners of our home here in the mountains while striving to limit the financial stress that often hinders our local theatres and communities. Mountain Misfits Theatre Company intends to explore the interconnectedness of live performance, creative process, sustainability, economic disparities, and community experience. A long term goal for Mountain Misfits is to expand the company to accommodate additional artists to create a space for local Appalachian creatives to not only share their expertise with their community but to be paid to do so; allowing for multiple productions within each yearly season all while bringing the shows to you. With the hope of not only engaging audiences in intriguing interpretations of pieces (that have in many cases gone overlooked in regions like ours), but also beautiful works by local playwrights; Mountain Misfits is thrilled to be in service with you.