Copyright © 2002 NLThomas
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TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Heritage Center recently celebrated a successful grand opening to the Trail of Tears Drama, a seasonal play about the triumphs the Cherokee people faced during the time of their forced removal to Indian territory.

The opening night of the Trail of Tears Drama served as a fundraiser to help fulfill the mission of the Cherokee National Historical Society Inc. to preserve and promote Cherokee history and culture. The event, sponsored by Cherokee Nation Enterprises raised $75,000.

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

Hastings Shade, Deputy Chief of the Cherokee Nation, served as a guest tour guide as the participants strolled through the Ancient Village on the Cherokee Heritage Center grounds. 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 were allowed to bid on items that would be sold in a silent auction.

The Cherokee Heritage Center served dinner outside in Adams Corner Rural Village. Guests enjoyed their dinner while mezzo-soprano singer, Barbara McAlister, serenaded them with an authentic Cherokee lullaby. Speaker Jay Hannah, president of Bancfirst in Oklahoma City and a Historical Society member, also gave a presentation.

After guests finished their dinner and bidding they made their way to the Amphitheater to watch the opening performance of the Trail of Tears Drama.

"Spectators were moved by this enchanting tale of strength and courage by playwright Joe Sears," said Marilyn Craig, Marketing Director for the Cherokee Heritage Center. "And after the drama, the guests were invited to attend a cast part on the stage where they enjoyed refreshments."

The American Bus Association has named the Trail of Tears Drams one of the Top 100 Events in North America. The drama is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through Labor Day weekend. The drama begins at 8:00 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 call toll free, 888-999-6007, and visit the website.