Discovering the Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene in Mount Airy, North Carolina

Mount Airy, North Carolina, is a charming small town that has long been associated with the beloved 1960s sitcom “The Andy Griffith Show.” While the town embraces its Mayberry connection, there is much more to discover in Mount Airy’s vibrant arts and culture scene. From live music performances and theater productions to art exhibitions and historical displays, Mount Airy offers a wealth of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the creative spirit of the community.

Surry Arts Council

At the heart of Mount Airy’s cultural landscape is the Surry Arts Council, an umbrella organization that supports and promotes the arts throughout Surry County. The council oversees a variety of venues and programs that showcase the talents of local artists and performers, providing visitors with a diverse array of cultural experiences.

One of the most notable venues under the Surry Arts Council’s purview is the Andy Griffith Playhouse, a 500-seat theater that hosts a range of live performances throughout the year. Named in honor of Mount Airy’s most famous native son, the playhouse features a regular lineup of plays, musicals, and concerts, showcasing the best of local and regional talent.

Another popular destination for arts enthusiasts is the Blackmon Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue that comes alive during the summer months with a series of concerts and festivals. From classic rock and country to beach music and oldies, the amphitheater offers something for every musical taste, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful natural setting.

For those interested in the visual arts, the Surry Arts Council Arts Center is a must-visit destination. Located in the historic Smith-Minnish House, the center features a rotating selection of exhibitions by local and regional artists, as well as classes and workshops for aspiring creatives of all ages.

Historic Earle Theatre

For music lovers, no visit to Mount Airy is complete without a stop at the Historic Earle Theatre, a beautifully restored 1930s theater that serves as a hub for live music and entertainment. Built in 1938, the Earle Theatre was once a popular destination for moviegoers, with its art deco styling and state-of-the-art technology.

Today, the theater has been lovingly restored to its former glory and serves as a venue for a wide range of live performances. One of the most popular events at the Earle Theatre is the weekly WPAQ Merry-Go-Round radio show, a live broadcast of old-time and bluegrass music that has been airing since 1948.

Every Saturday, the Merry-Go-Round brings together some of the best musicians in the region for a rollicking two-hour show that showcases the rich musical heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can experience the excitement of a live radio broadcast, complete with on-air banter, sponsor jingles, and a wide variety of musical styles, from traditional ballads and fiddle tunes to contemporary bluegrass and folk. You may view their archive of shows on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@wpaqthemerrygoroundarchive

In addition to the Merry-Go-Round, the Earle Theatre hosts a regular lineup of concerts, plays, and other live events throughout the year. With its intimate setting and exceptional acoustics, the theater offers a unique and immersive experience for arts lovers of all kinds.

Siamese Twins Exhibit

One of Mount Airy’s most unique cultural attractions is the Siamese Twins Exhibit, a fascinating display dedicated to the lives of Eng and Chang Bunker, the original Siamese twins. Born in Siam (now Thailand) in 1811, the Bunker brothers were conjoined at the chest by a band of cartilage and shared a liver. They became international celebrities in the 19th century, touring with P.T. Barnum’s circus and other traveling shows.

In 1839, the brothers retired from show business and settled in North Carolina, where they married two local sisters and fathered a total of 21 children. They lived in the Mount Airy area for the remainder of their lives, becoming successful farmers and respected members of the community.

The Siamese Twins Exhibit, located in the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, tells the incredible story of Eng and Chang Bunker through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the brothers’ early lives in Siam, their rise to fame as touring performers, and their enduring legacy as pioneering figures in the history of medicine and disability.

The exhibit also explores the Bunker brothers’ impact on the Mount Airy community, highlighting their contributions to the local economy and their descendants’ ongoing connection to the area. With its blend of history, science, and human interest, the Siamese Twins Exhibit offers a truly one-of-a-kind cultural experience for visitors to Mount Airy.

Other Cultural Attractions and Events

Beyond these core cultural institutions, Mount Airy offers a variety of other attractions and events that showcase the town’s creative spirit and unique character. Here are just a few additional highlights:

• The Whittling Wall: Located in the heart of downtown Mount Airy, the Whittling Wall is a unique public art installation that celebrates the traditional Appalachian craft of whittling. Visitors can watch local artisans demonstrate their skills and even try their hand at carving their own creation.
• Mount Airy Fiddlers Convention: Held annually in June, the Mount Airy Fiddlers Convention brings together musicians from across the country for a weekend of traditional music and dance. The event features competitions in a variety of categories, as well as workshops, jam sessions, and plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the sounds of old-time and bluegrass music.
• Mayberry Days: While not strictly an arts event, Mayberry Days is a beloved annual celebration that draws thousands of visitors to Mount Airy each September. The festival features a variety of activities and events inspired by “The Andy Griffith Show,” including lookalike contests, trivia games, and appearances by surviving cast members.
• Mount Airy Art in the Park: Held on the first Sunday of each month from May through October, Art in the Park is a juried craft and art show that showcases the work of local and regional artists. Visitors can browse a wide variety of handmade items, from pottery and jewelry to painting and sculpture.
• Autumn Leaves Festival: Another popular annual event, the Autumn Leaves Festival celebrates the beauty of the fall season in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and plenty of family-friendly activities, all set against the backdrop of Mount Airy’s picturesque downtown.

In Summary

Mount Airy offers a rich and varied arts and culture experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Appalachian music, cutting-edge visual arts, or classic sitcom nostalgia, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this charming North Carolina town. Plan a visit to Mount Airy and discover the community’s creative spirit for yourself.