For 27 years, Matt Coleman has been an integral part of the Walnut Grove Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, a beloved tradition that has become a second family for him. What makes this story particularly fascinating is the deep connection Coleman has formed with the cast and crew, and his journey from a spectator to a central character. In my opinion, this is a testament to the power of community and the magic that can be created when people come together to celebrate a shared passion.
Coleman's involvement began in 1998 when he took his children to see the pageant for the first time. The next year, his daughter, who was 12 years old at the time, wanted to act in it. This sparked a journey that would last for over two decades. From small roles with little to no speaking lines, Coleman gradually moved up, playing characters like Dr. Hoyt and the Rev. Alden. However, it was his portrayal of Eleck Nelson, a saloon owner and close family friend to the Ingalls, that truly captured his heart.
What makes the Wilder Pageant unique is its commitment to historical accuracy. Many elements of Nelson's life in the "Little House on the Prairie" TV show are fictionalized, but the pageant strives to stay true to the facts. Coleman has even visited Nelson's grave in Walnut Grove, a detail that adds a layer of authenticity to his performance. This dedication to accuracy is what makes the pageant so captivating and educational for both the cast and the audience.
One of the most memorable moments Coleman has experienced was during a live performance when a raccoon darted across the outdoor stage. He shared that they got lucky, and it looked like part of the performance. However, another error that couldn't be shrugged off so easily was when a horse with a full-sized buggy attached got spooked and started running off. Thankfully, nobody got hurt, but it was a close call. These unexpected moments add a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the pageant, making it a truly unique experience.
Despite the 40-minute drive back and forth every day, Coleman believes it's all worth it. The other members of the cast and crew have become a second family to him, and he has witnessed many actors in every stage of their lives. From the time they were 6 years old until they're out of college and starting to get married, Coleman has been there to watch them grow up. This is a testament to the enduring nature of the pageant and the strong bonds that form within its community.
The pageant's first performance is on Friday, continuing on July 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25. The gates in Walnut Grove will open at 7 p.m., and the pageant starts at 9 p.m. It is expected to last about two hours. For Coleman, this is just another year of bringing the story of Laura Ingalls Wilder to life, and he couldn't be more excited to continue this tradition for years to come.
