Copyright © 2002 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

Tahlequah, OK - The forced emigration of the Cherokee, following their roundup and confinement, has come to be known as the Trail of Tears. This event has become a symbol for the suffering of all Indian people. Most who survived were so stricken by their losses that they rarely spoke of the ordeal once it was over. The Cherokee Heritage Center is proud to tell the stories of this tragedy through the ''Trail of Tears Drama'', a playwright by Joe Sears, of ''Greater Tuna'' fame.

"Joe Sears paid close attention to historical accuracy, as well as to entertainment value when he wrote this drama", said Alicia Whelan, actress in the drama.

The drama begins with Will Rogers, played by Gene McFall, performing at the Ziegfeld Follies, when a technical problem occurs and Rogers begins to tell the story about his ancestors on the Trail Where They Cried. The characters of Will Rogers and Sequoyah, along with animal characters, narrate this famous Cherokee story with humor, wit and folklore.

"The drama is the story of the Cherokee, centered on the famous Trail Where They Cried", said Patrick Whelan, producer of the drama. "It is also about their traditional homelands and notable success there, mythology and folklore, heroes and villains and the ‘Golden Age’ experienced by the Cherokee in the Tahlequah area before the Civil War."

The 1,800 seat Tsa La Gi Amphitheater will come to life with theater and dance as this incredible drama unfolds. The Ts La Gi is recognized as one of America's most beautiful outdoor theater venues. Each seat provides an excellent view of the stage area, and the theater's unique design lends itself to natural acoustics. Named one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association, the Trail of Tears Drama offers excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world.

ABA's 2002 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected the Trail of Tears Drama from among hundreds of U.S. and Canadian events nominated by state and provincial tourism offices and visitors bureaus. Pageantry, drama, spectacle, dance, and comedy weave the texture of this moving story, said the ABA.

"I hope the audience leaves here with a more accurate understanding of the Cherokee people and their culture and their ability to overcome adversity and thrive", said Patrick Whelan.

The Trail of Tears Drama will run June 22 through Labor Day weekend every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $7.50 for children and $13.50 for seniors. For more information call the Cherokee Heritage Center, 918-456-6007 or toll free, 888-999-6007.