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On January 25, 2001, I met together with two other men, to discuss the fact that Mennonites in the Aylmer area were largely unaware of their own history. It was decided that the best way to present the history to them, in a manner that would have mass appeal, a play should be preformed.
That began a long and intensive process of historical research, writing, and networking, with constant meetings assuring that we were on the right path. The process was long and arduous, but as it approached the end, we had a script, where once there wasn't one, a community had come together to make it happen, and a story was ready to be told. It was agreed that the play would cover 500 years of Mennonite history, from the beginnings in Switzerland in the early 16th century, to present day southern Ontario, with a brief introduction of relevant Christian history up to that time. Although the story of the play is specific to Aylmer, much of story is common with other branches of the Mennonite church, especially the Mexican Mennonite branch. |
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October 9-11, 2002, days that will go down in Aylmer Mennonite history. Compliments from all around told of the incredible quality of creativity, drama, music and history of the event. In the 3 days, 1700 people came to see the play, 3 consecutive over capacity crowds.
A video was produced and is now in circulation, in DVD and VHS. |
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I, William Loewen, the creator of this website, am also the primary writer of the play. My copy of the script is available for viewing, from here. Any use of this play is allowed under the condition that the author be notified beforehand, as a means of recordkeeping.
The Word Perfect file contains the entire script, as well as a brief write-up for each scene, outlining the historical background, intended themes, and characters involved. To view the file, please visit the Download page. |