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Tahlequah, OK - Opening night of the Trail of Tears Drama, sponsored by Cherokee Nation Enterprises, was filled with excitement and opulence. Guests participated in a special benefit opening held at the Cherokee Heritage Center. The opening raised approximately $75,000 to help fulfill the mission of the Cherokee National Historical Society Inc. to preserve and promote Cherokee history and culture. Participants of this opening night celebration began their evening with a guided tour of the Ancient Village by Deputy Chief Hastings Shade.

The Ancient village is a replica of a 16th century Cherokee village as it would have appeared before European contact Following the tour, guests were led to the Cherokee Heritage Center Atrium where they enjoyed a brief reception and bid on items in a silent auction.

Dinner was served outside in Adams Corner Rural Village. Guests enjoyed their elegant dinner while mezzo-soprano Barbara McAlister serenaded them with an authentic Cherokee lullaby. They were further entertained by speaker Jay Hannah, president of Bancfirst in Oklahoma City and a Historical Society member.

As guests finished their dinner and bidding they made their way to the Tsa La Gi Amphitheater to watch the highly-acclaimed Trail of Tears Drama. Named one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association, spectators were moved by this enchanting tale of strength and courage by playwright Joe Sears of "Greater Tuna" fame. After the drama guests were invited to attend a cast party on the stage where they enjoyed refreshments and the company of the actors.

"I think the evening was a marvelous success", said Mary Ellen Meredith, interim executive director of the Cherokee Heritage Center. "It is a fine example of what organizations and community volunteers can do together."

The Trail of Tears Drama will run every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Labor Day weekend. The drama starts at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $7.50 for children and students, and $13.50 for seniors. For more information, call the Cherokee Heritage Center, phone: 918-456-6007 or toll free, 888-999-6007, or visit the website