Are you looking for a meaningful way to spend your summer with your family? The Nauvoo Pageant offers an extraordinary opportunity to participate as a Family Cast member! Immerse yourselves in history, faith, and community while contributing to a spectacular theatrical production. This unique volunteer experience is perfect for families seeking to create lasting memories and strengthen their bonds through service.
What is the Nauvoo Pageant Family Cast?
The family cast of the Nauvoo Pageant is a vibrant group of volunteers who bring the stories of Nauvoo to life each summer. Comprising approximately 130 participants, the cast is primarily made up of families, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and intergenerational service. This isn’t just about performing; it’s about becoming part of a supportive community and engaging in a deeply rewarding activity together. Whether you are a seasoned performer or simply enthusiastic about history and service, the family cast welcomes you.
Application Process and Key Dates
If you’re excited about the prospect of joining the family cast, mark your calendars! Applications are accepted annually from September 1st to October 31st for the following summer season. The application process is straightforward and accessible through the official Nauvoo Pageant website.
When applying as a family, it’s preferred that both parents and children participate together, reflecting the pageant’s family-oriented nature. However, recognizing diverse family structures, applications from single-parent families and individuals are also warmly considered. Be sure to detail any special circumstances in the talent/biographical section of your application to ensure the committee has a complete understanding of your family’s situation. Children of all ages are encouraged to participate, making this a truly inclusive family endeavor. Single adults over 21, not participating with their families, are also welcome to apply individually.
Important Note for Extended Families: While the pageant cherishes family participation, related families (grandparents, cousins, etc.) should submit separate applications. Acceptance for related families cannot be guaranteed, as each application is reviewed individually to ensure a balanced and diverse cast.
What to Expect: Rehearsal Schedule and Activities
Participating in the family cast is a two-week commitment filled with enriching activities and opportunities for growth.
Week 1: Rehearsals and Country Fair Fun:
The first week is dedicated to intensive rehearsals. Days begin early, around 8 a.m., and extend through the afternoon as cast members learn their roles and practice scenes. However, the experience is not all work! Evenings are spent hosting the delightful Country Fair, where cast members interact with visitors, share information about the pageant, and create a welcoming atmosphere. This blend of rehearsal and community engagement ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable first week.
Week 2: Performances and Historical Immersion:
The second week shifts focus to performance. After rehearsals on Monday and Tuesday, the family cast takes to the stage each evening to perform both the Nauvoo and British Pageants. During the daytime in the second week, families are encouraged to explore Nauvoo’s rich historical sites, participate in temple sessions (endowment and baptism), and enjoy a cast picnic and testimony meeting. This week balances performance with opportunities for spiritual enrichment and historical connection.
Schedule Variation for Red and Gold Casts:
- Red Cast: This is the first cast of the season. Unlike other casts, the Red Cast does not participate in the Country Fair during their first week. Instead, they continue rehearsals into the evening to prepare for the initial performances.
- Gold Cast: Serving as the final cast of the season, the Gold Cast has a slightly different schedule. It’s a one-week commitment designed to allow more family time for visiting historic sites. The Gold Cast focuses on hosting the Country Fair and performs only in the finale of both pageants on stage, providing a unique and slightly less demanding experience.
Physical Requirements: Be Prepared for the Elements
Participation in the Nauvoo Pageant family cast is physically demanding and requires a degree of stamina. Rehearsals and performances take place outdoors during July and August in Nauvoo, where temperatures can range from 80s to 100s Fahrenheit with high humidity (70-90%). The stage is unshaded, and cast members will need to navigate stairs, ramps, and the stage’s slope.
It’s crucial to be aware of these physical demands when applying. Applicants with special needs or medical conditions that might affect their ability to fully participate should clearly outline these in their application. The pageant committee is committed to making reasonable accommodations where possible and ensuring a safe and inclusive experience for all cast members.
Children’s Participation: A Family-Friendly Experience
The Nauvoo Pageant is intentionally designed as a family-friendly experience, recognizing that children are a vital part of the family cast. While the schedule is demanding, the pageant organizers understand that children’s needs are a priority. Parents are given flexibility to care for their children as needed throughout the day.
To further support families, dedicated Family Support volunteers organize activities for primary-aged children during daytime rehearsals. Outside of these planned activities, parents are responsible for supervising their children and ensuring their needs are met. The pageant emphasizes a supportive and understanding environment; cast members are not expected to be perfect parents, and the contributions of every family are valued.
Logistics: Transportation, Housing, and Meals
To help you plan your family cast experience, here’s essential information regarding logistics:
Transportation:
Family cast members are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from Nauvoo and throughout their participation. The pageant does not operate a shuttle service. The Nauvoo & British Pageants Headquarters Building (PHQ), located approximately 3 miles east of Nauvoo at 885 East Hwy 96, Nauvoo IL, serves as the central hub for many pageant activities.
Housing:
Participants are also responsible for securing their own housing accommodations. Many find convenient options in Nauvoo if arrangements are made promptly after acceptance notification.
Recommended Housing Resources:
- Nauvoo Tourism Site: www.beautifulnauvoo.com. Click on “Stay” for lodging options.
- Nauvoo Facilities Management (FM) RV Park: Located at 868 Brattle, this RV park offers full hook-ups and facilities. RV sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be reserved through the pageant office. Tent camping is not permitted due to safety concerns.
- Important Housing Verification: As with any travel booking, it is recommended to verify the legitimacy of your housing reservation.
Meals:
Convenient cafeteria-style meals are available at the pageant headquarters for a pre-paid fee. You can choose to purchase lunch, dinner, or both for any days during your service. Reservations and a 50% deposit are required by March 15th, with the remaining balance due by May 1st. Limited a la carte options are also available. Self-prepared meals can be eaten in the dining room with Food Services approval.
Pets:
While your service is deeply valued, the Nauvoo Pageants cannot accommodate pets. Please make arrangements for pet care during your time in Nauvoo.
Join the Nauvoo Pageant Family Cast Today!
Becoming a family cast member in the Nauvoo Pageant is more than just a volunteer opportunity; it’s a chance to create lasting family memories, deepen your faith, and contribute to a meaningful cultural event. If you’re ready for an unforgettable summer experience, apply to join the family cast and be part of something truly special!
