Outdoor dramas under the summer sky

  • By Kyle Valentini
  • June 8, 2011
  • 317
                        
Two outdoor dramas in the region make for a fantastic day trip or even an overnight stay in beautiful Ross and Guernsey Counties. Both productions provide entertainment, history and spirituality under the summer sky. Tecumseh The Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater is home to one of Ohio’s most popular outdoor dramas, Tecumseh. The dramatic outdoor production debuted in 1973 and has been seen by 2.4 million people from all over the nation. Tecumseh tells the story of the Shawnee leader as he attempts to save his homeland of Ohio at the turn of the 18th century. The production unfolds beneath the night sky with the sounds of galloping horses, live cannon fire and true-to-life battle sequences that take the viewer back to an Ohio of the past. “Our show provides a unique opportunity in that it is a historical drama that combines theatrical performance with history. It tells the story of one man who nearly changed the course of history and also is about the love the Shawnee people had for their land,” said Beth Beatty, Tecumseh producer and board president of the Ross-Chillicothe Convention and Visitors Bureau. Utilizing innovative production techniques that are emulated by others in the industry, Tecumseh relies on more than 100 people to make the production a success. “We finished 3rd in the nation in attendance for historical dramas in 2010 and one reason for that is because the quality of the production has given us national exposure. We have patrons that come from all over the United States. Plus, we recruit our actors nationally, which enables us to get some of the best young talent available,” said Beatty. Guests are encouraged to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the 1800 seat theater. With cast members serving as guides, the stuntmen of the production give a dazzling display of stage-combat, flintlock firing and then pitch headfirst from a twenty-one foot cliff. Tours include detailed historical information, demonstrations of weaponry, stunts, and makeup as well as explanations regarding communication systems and stage design. Tours last about one hour. Enjoy The Terrace Buffet before the performance with dinner in the spacious, covered terrace, overlooking a scenic view of forests and mountains. The Terrace features a buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy the buffet from 4:30p.m.-7:30p.m., Monday – Saturday, during the production season. Guests can visit the free mini museum and gift shop before the performance. “We enter into the 2011 season with the same dedication to quality and customer service that has carried us through 38 seasons and look forward to providing more of the same for our 40th season next year,” said Beatty. The Sugarloaf Amphitheater is located at 5968 Marietta Road, Chillicothe. Call them at 1-866-775-0700 for ticket prices and show times. The Living Word Outdoor Drama The Living Word Outdoor Drama is located in the rolling hills of Guernsey County in southeastern Ohio. The production is an entertaining and spiritual experience that has been moving audiences in rural Cambridge since 1975. Witness the Life and Ministry of Christ on a spectacular 400 foot panoramic set that is America's most authentic recreation of Old Jerusalem. The production includes The Sermon on the Mount, the Palm Sunday Entrance, The Last Supper, The Crucifixion, The Resurrection and The Ascension. The Living Word Outdoor Drama and their state-of-the-art theater allow performers of all ages to share the greatest story ever told while they learn, teach and perform. Made up solely of volunteers, it takes more than 100 people to make the seasonal production a success. Debbie Robinson, Guernsey County Visitors and Convention Bureau Director said, “The Living Word Outdoor Drama is unique in that it is the only production that allows visitors to be in the drama. There’s nothing like being swept up in the drama as a cast member. Visitors can show up an hour before the performance. Cast members guide you in how to act. There are scenes where you want to appear to be filled with joy and scenes where you appear like you’re crying. It is a completely different experience and it is very moving to be a part of it. It is a wonderful experience for youth groups or church groups. We suggest you see the show as an audience member on Friday, enjoy all that the area has to offer on Saturday during the day and come back at night to participate in The Living Word.” The Living Word Outdoor Drama is a non-profit Christian organization that relies on ticket sales and donations to continue to spread the Word through a theatrical telling of the last days of Christ’s life. The Living Word Outdoor Drama is a handicap accessible facility with free parking and entrance drop-off. They are located at 6010 College Hill Road, Cambridge. For reservations, call Lois. 740-439-2761


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