BLUE GATE THEATRE-Shipshewana, IN

Janette Oke's Love Comes Softly the Musical

written and composed by Christy Chavers Stutzman

Written and

Rehearsal - 6/22-6/30

Show Run - 7/1 -10/24

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The beloved, best-selling book by Janette Oke has been given new life in this brand new musical written and composed by Christy Chavers Stutzman.

When newlywed, Marty Claridge, sets out on a wagon train with her beloved husband, Clem, seeking “The Promise of Home” in the western frontier, she is faced with sudden tragedy and a heart-wrenching decision that will determine her very survival in a rugged wilderness. As she struggles with loss and grief, she finds herself surrounded by a community of neighbors who teach her lessons of generosity, kindness, and faith in God. Neighbors turn to family, bringing laughter and hilarity, while a marriage of necessity takes a surprising turn. Through it all, Marty finds “The Promise of Home” in unexpected ways as she comes to her own faith and learns that sometimes, Love Comes Softly.

SEEKING:

Young adult males who can pass for 12-16 years old, no taller than 5'6", who will also understudy 1 or more main characters

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Also Seeking:

Lomasi “Ma” Graham / Pioneer Woman #2 - 30’s - 40’s, of Cherokee descent, grandparents were strong Christians, proud of their Cherokee nation and traditions; forced to come out west on the Trail of Tears, but in spite of huge trauma, tragedy and loss, they passed down to their family a strong faith. She is married to Ben Graham. It is her 2nd marriage. Her first husband was Thornton Perkins who ran the general store in town. She now has a blended family, is the mother of 11 children total, (7 of her own) P. 94. (not all children are in the show). She is the female spiritual guide in the community and is a mother figure to most of the town. She is steady, a bit direct and yet caring and empathetic as well.

Clark Davis - About 26/27, recent widower. He is a man of few words and steady character. He is still grieving the loss of his wife; loves being a father to Missie; tall, handsome with strong and calloused hands; has a kind face, looks like a farmer and likes to work with his hands. He was an early pioneer settler and quickly became a community leader; a good neighbor, a quiet leader, a hard worker, has a naturally sacrificial nature, very thoughtful, steady, kind; a man of strong faith in God, an accomplished carpenter, has a patient nature, and tends to be very practical in his approach to life. Page 128 – “Does the right thing no matter the cost.”

Clem Claridge/ US Clark Davis/ Ensemble– About 22/23, strong, adventurous, boyish good looks, self assured/confident, grew up on a farm in Virginia, handyman, good with tools, the embodiment of the pioneer spirit; worked his way through college; from a middle class family. His family owns land in Virginia and he is the second generation to attend a university; well mannered, southern gentleman, good horseman, met Marty at one of her Aunt’s soiree’s while attending college in Baltimore; proud of Marty’s artistic gifts and encourages her ongoing artistic efforts.

Wagon Master / Pastor Simmons / Townsperson/Ensemble – Loud, commanding, authoritative trail master- has ridden many trails as a cowboy, guide and wagon train leader- serious about getting the settlers to their land safely / Pastor Simmons - Circuit preacher, tough, experienced, strong and wise; commanding presence; has a burden to keep

peace and encourage moral living among the pioneer settlements and mining towns; does the funeral for Clem and the marriage of Clark & Marty as well as Sally Ann Graham & Jason Stern.

Pioneer Woman #1 / Sally Ann Graham / Female Dancer #2 – 18 years old, slight build, shy, pretty, kind, trusting, hopelessly in love with Jason Stern, loves children but gets exasperated with her two younger brothers. She is a good cook and seamstress and can be spunky when she needs to be.

Nellie Graham / Pioneer Woman #5 / Female Dancer #3 – 14 -16 years old, smart, hard working, loves to read, eager to help, nurtures and “mothers” the younger children, a sweet smile and a cute but nervous laugh; usually in the shadow of her sister Sally Ann. Since Sally Ann is “in love” - Nellie is taking over some of the household responsibilities, but she’s still a girl at heart.