The Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant has been a cherished tradition for 27 years, and Matt Coleman has been an integral part of it. His journey began in 1998 when he took his children to witness the magic of the pageant for the first time. The following year, his daughter, who was just 12, expressed a desire to be a part of it. Coleman, driven by his daughter's enthusiasm, embarked on a two-year commitment to make this happen. By 2000, he decided to join the cast himself, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Coleman's dedication has been remarkable, playing various roles over the years, from small parts with minimal dialogue to more prominent characters like Dr. Hoyt and Rev. Alden. However, his favorite role has been that of Eleck Nelson, a saloon owner and a close family friend to the Ingalls family in the play. Nelson's most notable moment is saving Charles Ingalls from a prairie fire, a scene that adds a layer of realism to the story.
What makes this pageant unique is its commitment to historical accuracy. The real-life Eleck Nelson's grave lies in Walnut Grove, and the pageant strives to stay true to the original stories written by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Coleman mentions that the scripts are meticulously crafted, covering a year or a year and a half of the Ingalls' lives, ensuring a rich and detailed performance.
During his time with the pageant, Coleman has encountered some memorable moments. One instance involved a raccoon that darted across the outdoor stage during a live performance, adding an unexpected touch of wildlife to the show. Another incident was more serious; a horse with a full-sized buggy attached panicked and started running off. Thankfully, no one was harmed, and the horse was eventually caught before it could cause any further damage.
Despite the challenges, Coleman finds the experience incredibly rewarding. The cast and crew have become like a second family, and he has witnessed the growth of many actors from childhood to adulthood. He has been invited to graduations and weddings of these actors, forming deep connections that extend beyond the stage.
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant is a testament to the power of community and tradition. It brings people together from all walks of life, creating a sense of belonging and shared history. As the pageant continues to evolve, Coleman's commitment to it remains unwavering, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to experience this magical world that Laura Ingalls Wilder created.
