Palmyra, NY – In just a matter of days, the roles will be cast, the stages set and a rural New York hillside will become home to one of the world’s largest outdoor theatrical productions, the Hill Cumorah Pageant.  The seven performances are July 10 & 11 and July 14 – 18. The Pageant is presented annually by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with an all-volunteer cast.  Performances begin nightly at 9:00 p.m. with seating for over 7,000.  The Hill Cumorah is located on Highway 21, two miles north of Interstate 90, Exit 43.  Both admission and parking are free and no tickets are required. 

For those familiar with theatre, the sheer prospect of casting over 700 volunteer cast members into 1200 roles in a matter of hours, is nothing short of a miracle.  The costuming, beards, wigs, and props are assigned and a rigorous rehearsing schedule begins almost immediately.  The massive seven-level hillside stages, along with the lighting and sound systems, are all assembled only two weeks before the first night’s performance.  The Hollywood-quality sound track features the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and a 100 voice Children’s Choir.  Members of the cast will also share their unique perspectives about being in this type of outdoor theatrical experience as a family.  Based in the tradition of the American Community Pageant, the drama depicts scenes from the Bible and the Book of Mormon.  Since its humble beginning 77 years ago, the Pageant has grown to delight thousands each year with its elaborate, colorful costumes, and the magnificent special effects and sound system, yet still keeping the message of Christ’s gospel pure and clear.  You don’t have to be a Mormon to enjoy it!

The parking area is just south of the hillside and allows easy access to the food court, which is provided by local Rotary and Lions Clubs.  Spanish translation (through headsets) and American Sign Language interpretation are provided each evening.

Come early and enjoy meeting the costumed cast as they welcome the audience before each evening’s performances.  If you’ve haven’t seen the Pageant, make this the year to come!  For more information about the Hill Cumorah Pageant log onto www.hillcumorah.org or find us on Facebook under “Hill Cumorah Pageant”.

The Annual Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra takes place nightly at 9pm July 10, 11 and 14 - 18, 2015.  Conveniently located on Highway 21, just 2 miles north of Interstate 90, exit 43.

For more information call (315) 597-5851 or go to www.hillcumorah.org.

 

 

Steve Vaisey Hill Cumorah Pageant Public Affairs Director (585) 230-8180 vaisey@rochester.rr.com