Timed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the pageant tells the true story of John Lathropp, a 17th-century English pastor whose courageous stand for freedom of conscience helped lay the groundwork for religious liberty in America. Performances are scheduled to begin the last week of June.

Organizers describe “The Spirit of Freedom” as more than a historical production. It is a community-driven effort designed to inspire, unite, and energize communities along the Highway 89 corridor — culturally, socially and economically — while reminding audiences why religious freedom remains a cornerstone of American life.

The pageant is expected to rekindle memories of past community pageants in Sanpete County, from gathering together on summer evenings to enjoying sunsets, fresh-cut grass, blooming flowers, costumes, makeup, shared meals, and lasting friendships. Like those earlier productions, the new pageant invites broad community participation.

Unlike previous pageants, “The Spirit of Freedom” will be a fully live musical production, featuring actors performing live with original songs and live vocal music rather than a prerecorded soundtrack. Organizers say the music carries a powerful spirit and the story is touching, tender, and engaging for both adults and children.

The pageant traces the life of John Lathropp from his ministry in England — where religious conformity was enforced by law — through his imprisonment and eventual exile to America. Refusing to abandon his beliefs, Lathropp emigrated to Massachusetts, where his advocacy for liberty of conscience influenced early American thought on religious freedom and tolerance. Beyond his ideas, Lathropp’s legacy lives on through his descendants, which include six U.S. presidents and numerous Latter-day Saints leaders, including Joseph Smith.

Organizers believe Lathropp’s story resonates strongly today, exploring timeless themes of freedom, faith, sacrifice, and conscience. “We are the beneficiaries of what he suffered,” organizers note. “The freedoms, prosperity, and religious liberty we enjoy today are due to people like him.”

Producers also describe the pageant as a modern-day “miracle.” Producer Ned Armstrong said the list of meaningful coincidences and inspired connections behind the production spans more than seven pages. Among them: author Ora Smith had already written two novels about John Lathropp and offered to adapt the story for the stage; writer Lauri Updike had taught from a book about Lathropp for more than 20 years; and story expert Martin Hyatt was so moved by the project that he left his job and relocated to Sanpete County. Armstrong also pointed to the music itself as a miracle, describing it as something that “flowed” rather than being traditionally composed.

Community involvement remains central to the production’s success. Organizers are actively seeking volunteers of all ages to help as actors, singers, musicians, stage crew members, set designers, craftsmen, seamstresses, lighting and sound technicians, and production support staff. No prior stage experience is required.

The pageant is also expected to benefit the local economy. Previous pageants in the area drew tens of thousands of visitors, increasing traffic to local restaurants, businesses, and lodging. Community leaders see “The Spirit of Freedom” as an opportunity to showcase Sanpete County as a destination for meaningful, family-friendly cultural experiences.

Producing a pageant of this scale requires financial support, and organizers are seeking donations from individuals, families, and local businesses. Contributions will help fund costumes, sets, lighting, music, and promotion, with the goal of establishing a lasting event that can benefit the Manti area for years to come.

Those interested in auditions, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities can visit www.spiritoffreedompageant.com, email freedomthroughchristusa@gmail.com or join the Spirit of Freedom Pageant Facebook group.