With the arrival of summer comes the performance of many faith-promoting pageants and plays presenting anything from the restoration of the gospel to the Resurrection of Christ. While some of these pageants have already occurred this year, there are still several coming up, or you can plan to take your family next year! Admission to all of the following pageants is free, but some may require reservations. Check the websites for details.
Photo from lds.org Hill Cumorah page
Yearly Pageants
Hill Cumorah: July 11-12, 15-19 2014
The Hill Cumorah Pageant began in 1920 when a small group of missionaries from New York celebrated Pioneer Day at the Joseph Smith Farm. The pageant has only grown since, and now takes place each year on the actual Hill Cumorah with the help of hundreds of volunteers each year. It focuses on events in the Book of Mormon, climaxing with Christ’s visit to the Americas and ending with Joseph Smith receiving the plates. For more information including time and location, click here.
Photo from lds.org Hill Cumorah page
Nauvoo Pageant: July 8-31, August 1-2 2014
The Nauvoo Pageant is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. It tells the story of the early persecuted saints who built Nauvoo. This year it will also switch off with the new British Pageant, which debuted last year in England and celebrates early church events in the British Isles. Click here for more information.
Manti Mormon Miracle Pageant
The Manti pageant attracts thousands of visitors each year and takes place with the majestic Manti Temple as a backdrop. The storyline follows the restoration of the gospel, combined with scenes from the Book of Mormon and the journey of the pioneers. This year’s pageant took place in June. Click here for more information.
Photo from lds.org Manti Pageant page
Mesa Easter Pageant
This pageant takes place on the beautiful Mesa Arizona Temple grounds around the Easter holiday and runs one night in Spanish. Mesa pageant-goers will follow the birth, life, and death of the Savior, and celebrate the incredible event of the Resurrection set to song and dance. For more information, click here.
Every Other Year
Castle Valley Pageant: July 31, August 1-2, 5-9 2014
Performed on even-numbered years, this local pageant portrays the settling of the frontier. Along with the pageant, a Pioneer Village is set up before each performance where attendees can learn more about pioneer life. Click here for more information.
Photo from lds.org Clarkston Pageant page
Clarkston Pageant—Martin Harris: The Man Who Knew
The Martin Harris Pageant takes place on odd numbered years in Clarkston, Utah. This unique performance gives you a different perspective on Martin Harris—the man who is perhaps most remembered for losing the 116 pages, but who also had a significant positive influence on church history. For more information, click here.