"Echoes of the Umpqua" Pageant
The cast of “Echoes of the Umpqua” changes with the theme, but the unique local pageant that plays fast and loose with the history of the area continues to keep its audience in stitches. An audience member was overheard saying, “I think the cast has the most fun, but it is always enjoyable to see so many community members in one production.”
In its ninth year, the 2011 pageant will feature a pioneer family travelling west to Elkton "Journey to the Umpqua." Each year original music and lyrics are composed to keep the pageant fresh and interesting. In the past, the pageant has been based on various phases of area history, including 2009's celebration of the Oregon Sesquicentennial. One year it was early fort information, once it was a melodrama about the historic maiden voyage of The Swan as it traveled up the Umpqua Riverand one year it was a musical based on “the sound of logging.”
The theme song, “Elkton, Emerald of the Umpqua” has become a familiar tune for all community members. In each pageant “the river” introduces the pageant and sets the stage for life along the banks of The Umpqua. Our young pageant director, Cathy Byle, has used her talent and organizational skills to create an Elkton original that is treasured by the community. A summer music camp for local children provides a learning experience and cast members.
Interested in taking part?? Let us know.... Click here to find out how to contact us.
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