Outdoor drama was first performed in Battle Park in 1916 to celebrate the tercentenary of Shakespeare's death. W.C. Coker, faculty botanist who had developed the Arboretum nearby, chose the location. Several years later, when "Proff" Frederick Koch came to the University, the Battle Park location was developed into a permanent theatre. The Forest Theatre is dedicated to Koch, the founder of the original Carolina Playmakers and the father of folk drama in America.

 

The theatre was rebuilt with WPA funds about 1940 to a plan of Albert Q. Bell, who designed outdoor theatres for historic dramas at Manteo, Cherokee and Williamsburg, Virginia. In 1948 it was improved to a plan by architect Paul Beidler.

The theatre is frequently used for weddings, outdoor concerts, and other events.

from: www.unc.edu/about/landmarks.html