For 27 years, Matt Coleman has been an integral part of the Walnut Grove Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, a dedication that has earned him the status of a cherished family member among the cast and crew. His journey began in 1998 when he first brought his children to witness the spectacle. The following year, his daughter, aged 12, expressed a desire to join the cast, leading Coleman to make the daily 40-minute commute to Walnut Grove for the next two years. This commitment not only involved his daughter but also his own participation in the pageant from 2000 onwards.
Coleman's roles have evolved over the years, starting with minor parts and gradually progressing to more significant ones, including 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 historical accuracy to the performance.
The Wilder Pageant takes great care to stay true to the historical context, with the real-life Eleck Nelson's grave located in Walnut Grove. Coleman has visited this grave, adding a personal touch to his involvement. The play's scripts are meticulously crafted, covering a year or a year and a half of the Ingalls family's life, as discovered in Laura Ingalls Wilder's writings.
Coleman's dedication to the pageant has been rewarded with deep connections. He has witnessed the growth of the actors from childhood to adulthood, attending their graduations and weddings. This experience has created a unique bond, transforming the cast and crew into a second family. Coleman's commitment to the pageant, despite the daily commute, is a testament to the rich history and community it has fostered.
The pageant's performances, scheduled for July 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25, promise a captivating evening. With gates opening at 7 p.m. and the show starting at 9 p.m., attendees can expect a two-hour journey through history. Coleman's involvement, from his initial role as a parent to his current status as a beloved cast member, highlights the enduring appeal and the deep-rooted community spirit of the Walnut Grove Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant.
