Published: July 02, 2008 02:41 pm         

'Unto These Hills' to be performed in Cherokee, NC

Cherokee, NC – Since its inaugural debut in 1950, over five million visitors have attended the memorable “Unto These Hills.” The poignant outdoor drama tells the story of the Eastern Cherokee, from the arrival of the Europeans and forced exile along the Trail of Tears in 1838–39, to the ultimate revival of tribal life and tradition that survives today. 

The memorable performance features live music, ritual dance, and authentic Cherokee costumes, set on stage in a 2,800-seat mountainside amphitheater under the stars. The show has become a popular, family friendly summertime attraction for generations of Cherokee visitors and a great way for children to learn more about Native American history. In 2006, “Unto These Hills” experienced the first complete rewrite in its history. This year as the show entered its 59th season, it was again rescripted in a narrative, storytelling style. “The new changes make it easier for audiences to follow the story of the Cherokee as it unfolds over several hundred years,” said Linda West, the shows scriptwriter. The play is narrated by Selu the Corn Mother and her husband, Kanati the Great Hunter.

The drama also includes a new director, Eddie Swimmer, plus new cast, new costumes, and new choreography, which all conspire to add a more ethnocentric view of the Cherokee people and their history. Swimmer is one of the original members of the famed American Indian Dance Theatre and is a champion hoop dancer. “The new show brings renewed interest to our cultural attractions and encourages visitors to make Cherokee part of their vacation plans. The drama offers insight to our culture and a fun, memorable experience at the same time,” said John Tissue, executive director of the Cherokee Historical Association. “Our discount ticket packages make this an ideal outing for families this summer.”

As the drama begins, Selu and Kanati introduce the seven clans of the Cherokee. They tell of the arrival of Hernando DeSoto in 1540, which brought sickness to the Cherokee and opened up a sea of white men. The drama then spans through time, including the battle of Horseshoe Bend when the Cherokee helped the United States defeat the Creek Indians, then touching on the introduction of the Syllabary and the infamous Trail of Tears. The drama concludes with Junaluska finding his way home and a celebration of song and dance. There are fourteen scenes in this moving drama and many lessons to learn along the way.

Evening shows of “Unto These Hills” run through August 30, Monday–Saturday. The drama begins at 7:30 p.m. with a preshow at 7 p.m.; reserved seats are $20 for adults and $10 for youth. General admission is $18 for adults and $8 for children 6–13. Children under 5 admitted free with a paying adult. Group discounted rates are available. This year, save over 20% on discount ticket packages to two or more events and attractions including “Unto These Hills” outdoor drama, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, the Oconalufee Indian Village, the Festival of Native Peoples, July 17–19, and the 4th of July Powwow and fireworks celebration, July 4–6. Plus when you buy packages, get additional savings on participating hotel accommodations. SUMMER SPECIAL “Buy One Get One Free” ticket offer. Buy a ticket to Festival of Native Peoples and use the stub to receive a buy one, get one free ticket to one of Cherokee’s other attractions. Visit us online for discounted rates and more information at http://www.cherokee-nc.com/ or call 800-438-1601.