Pocahontas

History comes to life with “The True Story of Pocahontas” at Serenbe Playhouse. Travel to the settlement of Jamestown, and explore the woods of Virginia through Pocahontas’ eyes.

Written by playwright Kara Morrison, a member of the Waccamaw Siouan tribe, the play tells the story of Pocahontas from the perspective of a Native American. Pocahontas is played by two different actresses, both of Native American heritage. The director, Tara Moses, is a citizen of the Seminole Nation.

The play opens with Pocahontas before she is set to leave her home in Virginia and travel to England with her new husband, John Rolfe. During the 50 minute performance, she explores the forests of Virginia for one last time. Several of the cast members interact with the audience, allowing the kids to be part of the play and keeping their attention despite some of the heavier moments of dialogue.

The costumes are simple but transport the audience. Pocahontas switches between two outfits, a Native American outfit and an English dress. Cast members portray animals and wear headpieces to become a hare, a deer, a bird and a fish. Female gossips wear fancy hats and fan themselves to show we’re in England. Costume designer, Asa Benally, is of the Cherokee and Navajo Nations.

If your child is expecting to see Disney’s “Pocahontas,” she may be disappointed. But this play is an excellent way to teach her about the real Pocahontas, and she may be intrigued to know the Narrator and Mother, Irene Bedard, voiced Pocahontas in the Disney movie.

Before the show, kids can play stickball, a game the characters compete in during the play while the audience cheers. After the show, you can meet the cast and get their autographs, and an autograph page is provided at the back of the program.

“The True Story of Pocahontas” is an entertaining piece of history for kids and a touching reminder to adults that while you can’t go home again, you can remember where you come from.

-Emily Webb

Know Before You Go:

1. The play is outdoors, so check the weather. They have bug spray at the concession stand, but you may want to bring your own.
2. Wear comfortable shoes, as you have to walk down a slight hill from parking to the set.
3. Porta potties are available near the parking lot if you or your child needs to use the restroom.

June 13-Aug. 4. See website for showtimes.