This summer, Mountain Theatre Company turns up the volume on its most anticipated night of the year with Spotlight 26: A Summer Block Party – a high-energy celebration where theatre lovers and partygoers meet on the same dance floor.
Inspired by the rhythm, soul, and spirit of its world-premiere production Dancin’ in the Street, this one-night-only event invites guests to step back to the summer of 1978, where music filled the streets and the night never seemed to end.
At its heart, Spotlight is more than a party – it’s Mountain Theatre Company’s signature annual fundraiser. Every ticket purchased and every toast raised directly supports the work on stage while expanding access to theatre across the community. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Spotlight 26 benefit the Mountain Theatre Company Community Club, an outreach program made possible by Cullasaja Women’s Outreach. It’s a night where celebration fuels impact, ensuring that artists, audiences, and future generations can continue to experience the magic of live performance.
Designed as a modern reimagining of the traditional gala, Spotlight 26 unfolds as a fully immersive experience across three distinct environments. The evening begins in The Sunset Lounge, a stylish, 1970s-inspired basement retreat where guests can ease into the night with craft cocktails, live guitar by Mick Mayer, and a curated selection of elevated hors d’oeuvres. It’s intimate, inviting, and the perfect prelude.
From there, the energy builds as guests step into The Soul Street Party, a vibrant, open-air celebration alive with Motown favorites, glowing lights, and chef-driven food stations. Here, the atmosphere shifts from relaxed gathering to full celebration, with bold flavors, festive drinks, and a sense of shared joy that defines a true summer block party.
Finally, the doors open to Avenue 54 – and the night transforms. Inside the theater, the stage itself becomes a dazzling disco dance floor. Under spinning lights and shimmering disco balls, guests are invited not just to watch the show, but to become part of it. A live DJ spins iconic hits from legends like Donna Summer, the Bee Gees, and Earth, Wind & Fire, while cast members from Dancin’ in the Street appear throughout the night with electrifying live vocal moments.
Adding to the immersive experience, each guest receives an interactive Spotlight bracelet that guides their journey and comes alive during the final dance party – illuminating in sync with the music to create a breathtaking, collective moment on the dance floor.
Taking place July 10 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center, Spotlight 26 offers multiple admission levels, from the all-access Block Party Pass to an elevated VIP experience featuring exclusive backstage access and special perks.
For those who love Mountain Theatre Company’s work – or simply love an unforgettable night out – Spotlight 26 delivers both. It’s theatre. It’s a party. And it’s a powerful investment in the future of arts on the Plateau. For tickets and more information, visit mountaintheatre.com/spotlight.
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