Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is a theatrical production in Nauvoo, Illinois, a small town on the banks of the Mississippi River. This show is known as one of the best small productions in the Midwest, drawing visitors from all over the country.
Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is a captivating and moving theatrical production that showcases the rich history and culture of Nauvoo. With impressive production values and a talented cast, this small production has earned its reputation as one of the best in the Midwest.
Don’t miss the chance to be moved by this unforgettable show. This article explores the history of Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi, the show’s plot, and why it has become such a beloved production.
The History Of Nauvoo Sunset On The Mississippi
Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi was first produced in 1988 by the Nauvoo Pageant Association. The association was founded in 1974 and comprised volunteers who work to promote the history and culture of Nauvoo.
In the early 1800s, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) found the town and served as the church’s headquarters until the mid-1840s. Today, Nauvoo is a popular tourist destination known for its historic sites and beautiful scenery.
The Pageant Association produces several shows yearly, but Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is by far the most popular. The show has undergone several revisions over the years, with new songs and dialogue added to keep it fresh and engaging.
Despite these changes, the show’s heart has remained the same: a celebration of the history and culture of Nauvoo.
The Plot Of Nauvoo Sunset On The Mississippi
Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is a musical production that tells the story of the founding of Nauvoo and the struggles faced by the early members of the LDS Church. The show begins with a prologue in which the narrator sets the scene and introduces the main characters.
The show’s first act focuses on the early days of Nauvoo when the town was just a tiny settlement on the banks of the Mississippi River. The main characters are introduced to the audience, including Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church, and his brother Hyrum. We see the challenges they face as they try to build a new community in the wilderness, including opposition from their non-Mormon neighbors and persecution from the government.
The show’s second act takes place several years later when Nauvoo has grown into a thriving city. However, tensions between the LDS Church and their non-Mormon neighbors reached a boiling point, and the governor of Illinois issued an order for Joseph Smith’s arrest.
The act ends with Joseph and Hyrum Smith being taken into custody.
The show’s final act focuses on the aftermath of the Smiths’ arrest and their eventual martyrdom at the hands of a mob. The audience sees the impact of these events on the community of Nauvoo and the LDS Church as a whole.
Despite the tragedy, the show ends hopefully with the characters looking forward to a brighter future.
Watch this video to get an idea about how the performances work before going over for a live experience:
Sunset by the Mississippi – Nauvoo 2019
Why Is Nauvoo Sunset On The Mississippi Beloved?
There are several reasons why Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi has become such a beloved production. One of the most important is its historical accuracy. The show is based on extensive research into the history of Nauvoo and the LDS Church, and the characters and events portrayed in the show are faithful to the historical record.
This attention to detail makes the show a valuable educational resource for those interested in the history of the region.
Another reason why the show is beloved is its music. The show features original songs that are both catchy and moving. The music is a blend of traditional hymns and folk songs, with a few more contemporary numbers thrown in for good measure. The themes help to bring the story to life and keep the audience engaged throughout the show.
The production values of Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi are also impressive. The show is on a large outdoor stage, with the Mississippi River as a backdrop. The costumes and set design are top-notch, and the use of lighting and special effects adds to the spectacle of the show.
The most crucial reason, perhaps, why Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is beloved is the sense of community it fosters. The show is produced entirely by volunteers, many of whom are residents of Nauvoo or members of the LDS Church.
The cast and crew worked tirelessly for months to bring the show to life, resulting in a production infused with a sense of love and dedication.
The show also attracts visitors from all over the country, many of whom come back year after year to see the production. This creates a sense of camaraderie among the audience members, many of whom are moved to tears by the emotional story of Nauvoo.
Conclusion
Nauvoo Sunset on the Mississippi is a small production that has significantly impacted the Midwest. The show tells the story of the founding of Nauvoo and the struggles faced by the early members of the LDS Church and does so with historical accuracy, exceptional production values, and memorable music.
But perhaps the most crucial aspect of the show is the sense of community it fosters among its volunteers and audience members. If you find yourself in the Midwest, be sure to make a trip to Nauvoo to see this beloved production.