From Walk in the Light Productions

BATH — The Ormond Amphitheatre is opening its doors to once again host “The Promised Land” — the epic true tale of a North Carolina family whose search for freedom spans generations and miles, from fighting in the Revolutionary War to traveling across America in the pursuit of religious freedom.

Now in its ninth season, organizers hope this year to once again inspire patriotism and rekindle faith in those who attend. This may also be the final season in Bath, according to Judy Downey, theater owner, CEO and founder of Walk in the Light Productions.

”If you’ve been wanting to see this production, this is the year to do it!” Downey said.

This patriotic, faith-promoting family production combines drama, action and original music giving the cast and crew of over 150 the opportunity to help audiences see through the eyes of the Joseph Taylor, Sr. (ca.1728-1808) family — an ordinary family that lived by their faith in God during extraordinary times.

His son, Joseph Taylor, II (1760-1818), enlisted in the Continental Army and fought at Guilford Courthouse with the troops of American General Nathanael Greene when they clashed with British forces led by Lord Charles Cornwallis. When Joseph returned from battle, he married Sara Best, also a native of North Carolina. Their first son was William Taylor (1787-1839), born in Edgecombe County. William married Elizabeth Patrick and later moved to Missiouri where William was introduced to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). From the time he joined the Church, he became a dedicated member, following their prophet, Joseph Smith, through their historic persecutions. Like many of the early Mormons, he was forced to give up one home after another, his property was stolen and destroyed and his family left Far West for Illinois after receiving word of an extermination order to kill the Mormons. Just before arriving at their destination, William Taylor became ill and died, leaving his wife Elizabeth and their 14 children to carry on.

She joined the ‘Saints’ on the historic trek to Utah and in 1850 they arrived in the Salt Lake Valley where they could live and worship freely.

The cast consists of volunteers who have only five rehearsal days before presenting to the public. Cast members come from multiple states and vary from ages 18 months to 75-plus years.

The production runs June 27 and June 28. Concessions are served by the local Ruritan Club and begin at 6:30 p.m. Pre-show entertainment will begin at 7 p.m. and will include exhibits, games, pony rides and hands-on activities. The performance begins at 8:40 p.m. and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Admission and parking are free to the public. For more information, visit www.promisedlandpageant.com or call 252-923-0999.