Unto These Hills
Unto These Hills
4.5
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Monday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
About
2024 Season May 25th - August 17th You can feel a slight chill run up your spine; but not from the mountain winds shifting their direction in anticipation of the coming dusk. It is from your anticipation of the coming drama. Unto These Hills drama is the tragic and triumphant story of the Cherokee that traces back to the years before the heartbreak of the Trail of Tears to the present day. Millions of people have witnessed America’s most powerful drama.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- Kathryn M1 contributionOpening Night Magic!I came to see opening night of Unto These Hills and was so happy that I did! They have made a few changes to the script and it made the story so much better. More historical accuracy and the storyline is much better. I did not know that it could get better as I have love the production in the past but this year was even better. The performers were excellent as always and the dancers were very professional. The production is well worth the relatively low price of admission. All of the staff that I interacted with were so friendly and made me feel very welcome. The only thing I would remind people of is that this show runs no matter if it rains so be prepared with a poncho, NOT AN UMBRELLA. It rained on opening night and there were many people in the audience who did not care about the ability of the people behind them to be able to see the stage and they raised large golf umbrellas which totally blocked the view of the stage. They do sell ponchos at concessions for a very low price if you don't have one. Just be considerate of those around you. This is a great show and everyone wants to have a great experience.Visited May 2023Travelled soloWritten 28 May 2023
- stonepdtLouisville, Kentucky5 contributionsUnto These Hills dramaWe went to see the outdoor drama Unto These Hills on June 1. The drama was very informational and touching about the history of the Cherokee Indians losing their land to the whites. The actors were very good and cared about what they were displaying. The preshow was singing which was nice.Visited June 2023Written 4 June 2023
- Lori F3 contributionsExcellent play!This play was excellent. Kept our kids attention and we learned so much of the history. Every American citizen should see this play and hear the story of the Trail of Tears. The outdoor theater was very nice. No bleacher seats, all seats had a back!Visited June 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 June 2023
- Safari81602835 contributionsEmotional & Eye OpeningI would definitely recommend attending this drama. It is very emotional and eye opening. Helps shed light on what happened in the Cherokee history. This would especially be helpful for homeschooling children and children who are learning about this part of history right now. It will help what they are learning ‘come alive’ and be able to remember and pass on. The pre show was also nice, really enjoyed the toe tapping music and thought it was great that they had someone there to sign for those who might have needed it.Visited July 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 9 July 2023
- Christine P4 contributionsDon’t miss itReally enjoyed the play. It was well worth it. Covered so much in a short time. I recommend it to everyone. All the seats are good and the sound is good also, so don’t feel you have to be right up front. If you have trouble with stairs sit back a little further and you will have no problems enjoying the show. Be prepared though in case of weather or chill - sweater or poncho, seat cushion.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 July 2023
- K M1 contributionFantastic ShowI got the opportunity to see this show and it did not disappoint. The actors did a wonderful job. The story itself is very emotional and very well done. There are certain scenes, even though tastefully done, that might be a little hard for younger kids. There are also a couple of cannons that go off, so just be prepared, but nothing too intense and definitely added to the show. The seats were all great. We choose to sit up top, just make sure you get a stool for your feet (located on the bottom floor). Highly recommend and I know next time I'm in town, I will see it again.Visited July 2023Written 19 July 2023
- retiredrod2017Hartsville, South Carolina37 contributionsExcellent way to spend an eveningEverything about this was top notch. Must see if you are near Cherokee. Costumes, set, theater, acting, special effects, sound, lighting are all excellent. They have taken real good care with the theater and show to make it a memorable evening.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 July 2023
- kates5283Cincinnati, Ohio176 contributionsImpactful and stellar show!We have always come down after this was closed for the season, but we made it earlier this time and were finally able to get to the show. It was absolutely stunning. It wasn't very hot when we were there so it was a comfortable evening for the show. The story itself is so very important to hear and understand. The performance is so impactful and our kids walked away wanting to do some research to learn more. We hope to get down during the season again to see it next time we are there. Bravo to the actors!Visited September 2022Written 13 August 2023
- Kitty MChesapeake, Virginia71 contributionsAmazing End to the 73rd Season!We were fortunate to see the final performance of Unto These Hills for the 2023 season and it was such a treat. We have seen the show several times over the past three years and I really enjoyed the changes that were made to dialogue and some of the staging this year. For example, the death of Tsali in act 2 (sorry for the spoiler), is much more traumatic and communicates the tragedy more effectively. The cast is about 50/50 Cherokee and non Cherokee with native americans portraying the main Cherokee roles (Yonaguska, Junuluska, Elias Boudinot, Nundayeli, White Path, Beloved Woman, Ochella, War Woman) in addition to many native american adults and children performing as part of the Ensemble. There are great fight scenes including cannon and gun fire so prepare your younger attendees for the loud noises! The dancers were very skilled and passionate in their performance. The Eagle Dance is a powerful expression of the vicory at Horseshoe Bend. I highly recommend everyone see this show for both its historical and artistic value.Visited August 2023Travelled with familyWritten 22 August 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
792 reviews
Excellent
504
Very good
166
Average
64
Poor
33
Terrible
25
Kimberly D
8 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
The show was awesome. It got really cold after the sun set so I'd recommend taking a blanket. I'd like to go again
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kitty M
Chesapeake, VA71 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We were fortunate to see the final performance of Unto These Hills for the 2023 season and it was such a treat. We have seen the show several times over the past three years and I really enjoyed the changes that were made to dialogue and some of the staging this year. For example, the death of Tsali in act 2 (sorry for the spoiler), is much more traumatic and communicates the tragedy more effectively. The cast is about 50/50 Cherokee and non Cherokee with native americans portraying the main Cherokee roles (Yonaguska, Junuluska, Elias Boudinot, Nundayeli, White Path, Beloved Woman, Ochella, War Woman) in addition to many native american adults and children performing as part of the Ensemble. There are great fight scenes including cannon and gun fire so prepare your younger attendees for the loud noises! The dancers were very skilled and passionate in their performance. The Eagle Dance is a powerful expression of the vicory at Horseshoe Bend. I highly recommend everyone see this show for both its historical and artistic value.
Written 22 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pam B
2 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Payed extra for Backstage. Was told by lady at the village where we bought ticket it was handicap accessible. Wonderful show. Only handicap seats are cheap seats. Had to have 2 adults to help my grandson who is handicap to the stage. I also found it very difficult and ended up in the sand twice, and almost fell trying to get back to the seated area. Also only saw 2 people in costumes " backstage."
Written 19 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jack T
6 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
With all respect to the Cherokee nation, and all it's heritage - the show was just short of Awful.
My wife is originally from Waynesville NC and went to see this show when she was younger; she wanted to share the experience with me as she remembered it - well, it was nothing like it used to be!
Firstly, there were very few Cherokee in the production - it was mostly White & Black performers, Who danced more like ballet then traditional Indian dances.
The shows dialog was corny, not very deep and though they did hit on some major stepping stones in the Cherokee history - they missed a lot and rushed the ending (Like a badly written movie where the writers couldn't come up with a good ending).
We (5 Adults - 4 from western NC, and myself) were VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!
Save your money - all the ads you see of Cherokee Indians dancing in authentic Indian dress is baloney! When you pay to see history, you should expect authenticity - here you get some white kids prancing around like fairies more than Indians.
If I were the Cherokee Indian Leaders, I would be embarrassed - jmo
My wife is originally from Waynesville NC and went to see this show when she was younger; she wanted to share the experience with me as she remembered it - well, it was nothing like it used to be!
Firstly, there were very few Cherokee in the production - it was mostly White & Black performers, Who danced more like ballet then traditional Indian dances.
The shows dialog was corny, not very deep and though they did hit on some major stepping stones in the Cherokee history - they missed a lot and rushed the ending (Like a badly written movie where the writers couldn't come up with a good ending).
We (5 Adults - 4 from western NC, and myself) were VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!
Save your money - all the ads you see of Cherokee Indians dancing in authentic Indian dress is baloney! When you pay to see history, you should expect authenticity - here you get some white kids prancing around like fairies more than Indians.
If I were the Cherokee Indian Leaders, I would be embarrassed - jmo
Written 15 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dick P
Amite, LA508 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
This was a good passionate play. It was obviously a low budget, less professional operation compared with other similar outdoor plays I have visited, but the enthusiasm of the cast made up for the weaknesses in budget and acting ability. My whole family enjoyed it.
Written 15 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kates5283
Cincinnati, OH176 contributions
Sept 2022
We have always come down after this was closed for the season, but we made it earlier this time and were finally able to get to the show. It was absolutely stunning. It wasn't very hot when we were there so it was a comfortable evening for the show. The story itself is so very important to hear and understand. The performance is so impactful and our kids walked away wanting to do some research to learn more. We hope to get down during the season again to see it next time we are there. Bravo to the actors!
Written 13 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura P
Dallas, TX40 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
This performance was the final experience we planned while staying in Cherokee. We had already visited the Cherokee Museum and the OIV [the living history Indian village]. Tonight's performance helped bring together the history explained in the museum. We added dinners to our tickets and that was super pleasant served off house right under a newly constructed shelter. Dinner was a BBQ meal with baked beans. We also added the backstage tour to each ticket as well. Highly recommend!
Among all the excursions we tackled, this was the one we were and felt the most relaxed at by arriving on time for dinner.
Also highly recommend arriving before 7:30 pm as the pre-show "band" performs.
Among all the excursions we tackled, this was the one we were and felt the most relaxed at by arriving on time for dinner.
Also highly recommend arriving before 7:30 pm as the pre-show "band" performs.
Written 24 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
retiredrod2017
Hartsville, SC37 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Everything about this was top notch. Must see if you are near Cherokee.
Costumes, set, theater, acting, special effects, sound, lighting are all excellent. They have taken real good care with the theater and show to make it a memorable evening.
Costumes, set, theater, acting, special effects, sound, lighting are all excellent. They have taken real good care with the theater and show to make it a memorable evening.
Written 21 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
K M
1 contribution
Jul 2023
I got the opportunity to see this show and it did not disappoint. The actors did a wonderful job. The story itself is very emotional and very well done. There are certain scenes, even though tastefully done, that might be a little hard for younger kids. There are also a couple of cannons that go off, so just be prepared, but nothing too intense and definitely added to the show. The seats were all great. We choose to sit up top, just make sure you get a stool for your feet (located on the bottom floor). Highly recommend and I know next time I'm in town, I will see it again.
Written 19 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christine P
4 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Really enjoyed the play. It was well worth it. Covered so much in a short time. I recommend it to everyone. All the seats are good and the sound is good also, so don’t feel you have to be right up front. If you have trouble with stairs sit back a little further and you will have no problems enjoying the show. Be prepared though in case of weather or chill - sweater or poncho, seat cushion.
Written 17 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How far is the walk from the parking lot? Do the seats have backs for support and comfort?
Lorie G
Calhoun, TN52 contributions
Also the seats do have backs and you can even get a little step to use as a footstool.
I want to know what the seats are like in the VIP section. I am 85 and cannot sit on a hard seat with no back
JCox_79
Clover, SC2 contributions
Is this appropriate for a 2 year old, 8 year old and 11 year old?
ROBERT J
Erwin, TN60 contributions
Yes, this is a beautiful history story of the Cherokee Indians of their life and time in this beautiful area. The costumes dancing and story telling are impressive to say the least. The program is long - about three hours. I don't know about the two year old one - but the others should really enjoy it.
Can stadium seats be used intheater.
KHobba
Woodstock, GA8 contributions
Not effectively. The seats have backs to them so other than as a cushion a stadium seat would not be useful.
What is the fall schedule?
Lynn60
Kentucky1,446 contributions
There is no fall season. Last show is August 17.
What is included in the preshow buffet?
mswan-lablover
Charlotte, NC1 contribution
I agree exactly with Jason of SD, it's not a buffet,BBQ sandwich, beans, mac n cheese, coleslaw, cake. Free refills throughout show. Personally, I didn't think it was worth $15, it's definitely not the greatest BBQ and mac n cheese, but it was not terrible either, it was okay, you are paying for the convenience.
David P
1 contribution
What are the 2020 dates? I ask because we have to book our place early.
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Claim your listingUNTO THESE HILLS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Unto These Hills
- Unto These Hills is open:
- Mon - Sat 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Hotels near Unto These Hills:
- (0.47 km) Rolling Hills Lodge
- (0.75 km) River's Edge Motel
- (1.03 km) Super 8 by Wyndham Cherokee
- (1.11 km) Econo Lodge
- (1.59 km) Cherokee inn
- Restaurants near Unto These Hills:
- (0.55 km) BJ's Diner
- (1.28 km) Peter's Pancakes & Waffles
- (1.18 km) Front Porch Cakery & Deli
- (0.68 km) Mini Donut Place
- (1.87 km) Sassy Sunflowers Bakery & Cafe