RhinoLeap production returns to bring local WWI history back to life once again

ASHEBORO — RhinoLeap’s popular play, “COMPANY K: From Asheboro to the Fields of France”, returns for another stop at the historic Sunset Theatre Feb. 2-5.

The production has been on stage several times since its debut in 2019. It tells the story of Sept. 29, 1918, when Company K of Randolph County helped make a historic stand on the front lines during World War I.

Based on actual events, live music and performances bring to life the love, heartache and brotherhood found in actual letters between North Carolina soldiers and their loved ones leading up to Company K's final battle that accelerated the end of WWI. 

The play was written by Barbara Presnell, a poet based in Lexington. Asheboro’s Jeremy Skidmore is the director.

The production was originally conceived by Randolph County Public Libraries and commissioned by the City of Asheboro.

It features actors from all over the United States, including James Alton, Chance Carroll, Amanda Forstrom, Isaac Klein, Patrick Osteen and John Romanski.

Randolph County musicians Mark Dillon and Christen Blanton Mack will provide the live music. Sets were designed by Raleigh and Greenville designers Noah Trimner and Dorothy Austin-Harrell.

Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 2-4, and at 2:30 on Sunday, Feb. 5. Tickets range from $10 to $25 and can be purchased at   RhinoLeap.com or in person at Brightside Gallery, 170 Worth Street, Asheboro.

Friday, Feb. 3, has been designated as date night. Free child care for parents of children 4-12 years old will be provided with the purchase of at least two $25 tickets. Children can be dropped off at Carolina Dance and Gymnastics (just a few doors down from the Sunset Theatre) anytime after 6 p.m. and then picked up by 9 p.m. Email info@rhinoleap.com to reserve a spot for your children.

Also, anyone between the ages of 13 and 19 living in Randolph County can see this production for free. Arrive 30 minutes before showtime to receive a free ticket. Teenagers can be placed with paying members of their party upon arrival.