“Liberty!” Celebrates Tennessee History the Last Three Weekends in July
Opens 36th Season of Outdoor Drama on Thursday, July 10, 2014
T
he Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Tennessee begins its 36th season July 10 at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area in Elizabethton, and continues for a three weekend run – Thursdays through Saturdays – beginning each evening at 7:30 in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater. Tennessee’s official outdoor drama is presented by a cast of local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. Liberty! portrays the significant history of Sycamore Shoals during the late 18th century. The concept of outdoor drama offers a very unique format in which to present a theatrical performance. Without a doubt, experiencing live theater, beside the cool waters of the Watauga River, with Fort Watauga as the backdrop to the play, is unlike any other. Theatrical lighting, professional sound, and a host of unexpected effects completely immerse the audience in the lifestyles of the late 18th century. As the story unfolds, long hunters and settlers begin leaving the protection of the English Colonies, crossing the Appalachian Mountains in violation of the British Proclamation of 1763. Historically, along the Watauga Old Fields, families soon made their homes, formed a new government, bought and traded land from the Cherokee, and ultimately, during the American Revolution, fought for the freedom we hold so dear today. The series of events that unfolded at Sycamore Shoals were critical to state and national history in the 18th century. These dramatic chapters in America’s westward expansion set the tone for a number of events that helped propel the British colonies towards independence and a democratic form of government. These stories are proudly shared with our guests during each performance of Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals. The 2014 season will also mark the 5th exciting year for Carter’s Trading Post, a venue named in honor of the original store opened by pioneers John Carter and partner William Parker shortly after they
10 June 2014 | FunThingsToDoInTheMountains.net
arrived on the frontier in 1771. A fine menu of mouth watering treats will be offered each evening for Liberty! guests. During your visit to Sycamore Shoals, please plan to visit our new interpretive exhibit, shop in our Eastern National Gift Shop, and take in the sights and sounds of your Tennessee State Park. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area, A to Z Rentals, Appalachian Lighting & Production, Big John’s Closeouts, CH2M Hill Corporation, the City of Elizabethton, Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce, Elizabethton Electric, Holston Gas, LeBleu, Massengill-DeFriece Foundation, Inc, Northeast TN Valley Regional Industrial Development Association, the Tennessee National Guard, Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution, John & Susan Kubenka, Michael & Lynne Barnett, Dr. Samuel Powell (Burlington, NC), 11Connects – WJHL TV, and WCYB TV 5
Thursdays-Saturdays, July 10- 12, 17 – 19, and 24 -26, in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area in Elizabethton. Performances begin nightly at 7:30. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (55 & over), and $5 for children (6 – 7 yrs of age). Children 5 and under are admitted free. This year we are pleased to offer a Family Cap Discount for Immediate members of one family of $39.00 (Parents and their children). Friends of Sycamore Shoals Members will be admitted for $6.00. Veterans Night is Thursday, July 17 – Veterans and one escort are admitted for Free for this performance. For more information, please call the park at (423) 543-5808. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area 1651 W. Elk Avenue Elizabethton, TN 37643 tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ sycamore-shoals www.sycamoreshoalstn.org