Well, it’s summer time, and that means it’s time for vacations! As you start planning, don’t forget to take advantage of the various pageants taking place across the country. From New York to California, pageants cover the ground occupied by the modern day church in its early history. If you are like me, however, you may not be aware of the wide dispersion of pageants across the country. Just to keep you in the loop, I’ve presented them in order of occurrence.
Nauvoo Pageant, Nauvoo, Illinois – The Nauvoo Pageant celebrates the restoration of the gospel, and follows the mission of Joseph Smith. The pre-show activities begin at 7:00, and the actual pageant starts at 8:45. You can also spend some time beforehand visiting historic Nauvoo, where minishows are performed throughout the day. The show runs from July 6th until August 3rd.
America’s Witness for Christ, Hill Cumorah Pageant, Palmyra, New York – A representation of the stories presented in the Book of Mormon, the Hill Cumorah pageant follows Lehi’s family from the exodus from Jerusalem all the way down to Christ’s visit to his descendents. The pageant takes place on July 13th and 14th, and the 17th through the 21st. It starts at about 9:15 pm and lasts for about 75 minutes. For more information, visit the official website at http://www.hillcumorah.org/Pageant/.
Oakland Temple Pageant, Oakland, California – Held at the Oakland Temple, the Oakland Temple Pageant covers the early history of the church and includes a full symphony orchestra and a chorus of 450. Evening performances of the pageant run July 17th to 21st and 24th to 28th, and matinee performances will be held on July 21st and 28th.
Castle Valley Pageant, Castle Valley, Utah – An historical re-enactment of settlers in Utah, the Castle Valley Pageant covers various scenes in the lives of early Saints out west. Seating 4,000 guests, the pageant takes place August 2nd through 4th . It starts at 8:30 and lasts approximately 90 minutes.
Martin Harris: The Man Who Knew, Clarkston, Utah – This pageant focuses on the life of Martin Harris, one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon. He played a significant role in the early church, going so far as to mortgage his farm to pay for the original publication of the inspired book. Although he fell away from the church, he rejoined it in his final years and died firm in his testimony of Joseph Smith. This pageant takes place August 3rd and 4th, 7th through 11th, and 14th through 17th. It begins at approximately 8:15. Although the pageant itself is free, tickets are required and can be obtained by writing PO Box 151, Clarkston, Utah 84305. You can also visit the Martin Harris Pageant website at http://www.martinharrispageant.org/. Also, a BBQ dinner is available at the local meetinghouse for $6.50 a meal, but reservations are required.
The Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant and the Mormon Miracle Pageant in Manti, Utah took place earlier this year. As for my family, we are planning to attend the Hill Cumorah Pageant in the next few weeks. I’m sure you’ll read a blog soon after that encourages you to take the next opportunity you have to attend!
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