The arts scene at SML is where you can dive into our region’s fun, cultured and playful side. Artists, writers, musicians, photographers and actors showcase their talents in new and exciting ways, making SML a hotspot for creative types.
If you want to get involved, the ideal place to start is the Smith Mountain Arts Council, a diverse and enthusiastic group ready to welcome you with open arms. If you fall more into the sit-back-and-enjoy-the-show category, you’ll find a wide range of activities to quench your creative thirst, including concerts, performances and art shows.
Keep scrolling form more details on the art created and celebrated at Smith Mountain Lake.
Harvester Performance Center
One item on your SML to-do list should be seeing a show at the charming Harvester Performance Center in nearby Rocky Mount. An intimate venue that features local, regional and national musicians in a wide range of genres, the Harvester is a delight for locals and visitors. A small sampling of past acts includes Roseanne Cash, Brandi Carlile, The Oak Ridge Boys, Lee Ann Womack, Michael McDonald, The Black Lillies, Dawes, Willie Nelson, Aaron Nevil, Gin Blossoms and The Embers.
SML Pavilion
The SML Pavilion at Downtown Moneta opened in 2022 as a venue for community concerts, festivals and other events – all to benefit area nonprofits. Family-friendly happenings are scheduled April through October at the large, covered pavilion that can accommodate 400 people and features professional sound and lighting. There’s also green space for picnics and a concession area for food, beer, wine and other beverages. Make plans to join in the fun while helping raise funds for Smith Mountain Lake nonprofit organizations.
Smith Mountain Arts Council
A nonprofit organization, the Smith Mountain Arts Council coordinates visual, performing and literary arts opportunities for SML residents of all ages. Annual events include plays presented by the Lake Players, photo and art shows, musical productions featuring the Lakeside Singers, coffeehouse-style concerts and other special events. SMAC also offers a number of community outreach programs and forums for skill development in photography, music and literary arts.
Westlake Cinema
Located at Westlake Towne Center, Westlake Cinema is a fourplex movie theater with stadium seating that features the latest film releases.
SML Harmeneers
The Smith Mountain Lake Harmeneers Barbershop Chorus shares music via performances for groups and individuals, including their popular annual singing Valentines.
Little Town Players
Little Town Players is a community theater in Bedford that presents 4-5 productions each year, including mysteries, musicals and children’s theater. Recent shows have included “The Mousetrap,” “12 Angry Men” and “Little Shop of Horrors.”
Mill Mountain Theatre
A fixture of the Roanoke arts scene since 1964, Mill Mountain Theatre is a regional theater in downtown Roanoke that produces professional productions each year. Recent shows have included “Jersey Boys,” “Mama Mia!” and “A Chorus Line.”
Center in the Square
Center in the Square hosts a variety of regional arts, educational opportunities and cultural organizations in downtown Roanoke. Check out the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, the Roanoke Pinball Museum (where you can play!), a children’s museum and a science museum. Train buffs will want to explore the O. Winston Link Museum located in the former passenger station of the N&W Railway.
