North Carolina

Curtain Up! Broadway Musicals in the ‘Land of the Sky’

Program No. 22396RJ
Experience the love of Broadway music in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With an expert in show tunes at the piano, get a behind-the-scenes view of musical theater and its glorious history.

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At a Glance

Ethel Merman. “Show Boat.” “Oklahoma.” Many blocks from Manhattan’s dazzling lights, experience the very same love for Broadway music in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Hear the fingertips of a Broadway aficionado plunk the piano keys as your learning adventure moves from revered show tunes to musical blockbusters. Delight in the virtuoso's arrangements of show tunes. Go close-up on Broadway tunes and shows through captivating video clips. And take your seat for a behind-the-music discussion discovering the glorious history of musical theater!
Activity Level
Easy Going
All facilities are in one building, with approximately 300 yards walking required; a few stairs. Outside areas are mountainous, with inclines and uneven terrain.

What You'll Learn

  • Learn from an award-winning university professor who is an expert on Broadway musicals and show tunes.
  • Reminisce and explore from a feel-good list of dozens of musicals and show tunes.
  • Hear a prized multi-media presentation on Broadway music and explore the genre’s connections to classical and jazz.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, a live performance or event, and a value-priced single room. Opportunities are available for traveling companions to attend a different program at Montreat during the same week. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Michael Ruiz
Michael Ruiz — originally from Camden, New Jersey — is professor emeritus at UNC Asheville, and a pianist whose original piano concertos were performed by the Winston-Salem Symphony, with each of his three children as soloists. He was featured on CNN for innovative multimedia use of the computer in higher education and was the 2004 University of North Carolina at Asheville recipient of the UNC Board of Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Michael holds a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Maryland.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Michael Ruiz
Michael Ruiz View biography
Michael Ruiz — originally from Camden, New Jersey — is professor emeritus at UNC Asheville, and a pianist whose original piano concertos were performed by the Winston-Salem Symphony, with each of his three children as soloists. He was featured on CNN for innovative multimedia use of the computer in higher education and was the 2004 University of North Carolina at Asheville recipient of the UNC Board of Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. Michael holds a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Maryland.
Profile Image of Tracy Bailey
Tracy Bailey View biography
Tracy has been on the program staff of Montreat Conference Center since 1986. She began working with Elderhostel programs in 1989, and in 1997 assumed the additional role of on-site coordinator. A native of the area, she graduated from Asheville-Buncombe Technical College in 1981. Her favorite hobbies are hiking, pottery and reading. Tracy married Sam in 2007, and added three daughters to her family. In addition to her own grown children, she and Sam have been foster parents since 2010. They have four grandchildren.
Profile Image of Sarah Skinner
Sarah Skinner View biography
Sarah Skinner joined the Montreat staff in 2011. She has worn many hats over the years, most recently working as the director of events before becoming a director of programs in the fall of 2022. Sarah's first experience at Montreat was during the infamous "Blizzard of '93," when her family got snowed in during a church retreat. Originally a native of Columbia, SC, Sarah has also lived in China and Ireland. She enjoys hiking, writing poetry, and having tea parties with her daughters.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Meals
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Low Salt, Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Aug 25, 2024 - Aug 30, 2024
  • Aug 25, 2024 - Aug 30, 2024
  • Aug 25, 2024 - Aug 30, 2024
  • Sep 15, 2024 - Sep 20, 2024
  • Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 04, 2024
  • Feb 23, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
  • Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
  • Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
  • Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
  • Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.
5 nights
Montreat
Located at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center overlooking Lake Susan, the historic and impressive stone Assembly Inn has 100 comfortable guest rooms. Guest rooms have either a king, a queen, or two twin beds. The majestic 1928 Inn and guest rooms, updated in 2014, have small tiled guest bathrooms (all private baths) with tub/shower units, contemporary in-room sinks with granite countertops, large mirrors, individual heating and air conditioning units, and information on local dining and shopping options. Wifi service for your personal devices is included. To encourage guests to better appreciate Montreat’s beauty and serenity, guest rooms do not have television sets or telephones (but there is a television in the main lobby). It would be helpful to bring an umbrella, a flashlight, an individual make-up mirror, and shampoo and conditioner, if desired. Loan of an iron or hair dryer can be arranged, and needed amenities can be purchased at the front desk. In the beautiful Assembly Inn Lobby, one will find comfortable furnishings, a large fireplace with hearth, and a baby grand piano. This impressively pillared public space with quiet corners and a cozy reading room invites fellowship, enjoyment of puzzles and games, or individual relaxation. A large screen TV is located in the main lobby. Two attached patios beckon, with outdoor seating and views of the lake. The Inn is equipped with both an elevator and passenger lifts for those who wish mobility assistance. These lifts service the Inn’s meeting spaces as well as the Galax Dining Room and all guest rooms. ADA compliant guest rooms feature a walk-in shower and raised toilet seat. The front desk is staffed around the clock for your stay. Montreat is a private, non-profit conference center with roots in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). We strive to demonstrate intentional hospitality to all. We will not tolerate discrimination on our campus. All are welcome.





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