‘Nanyehi’ returns to The Joint Nov. 5-7
Historical Cherokee musical seeking cast of nearly 30 actors
TULSA, Okla. – An original musical based on the life of one of the most influential women in Cherokee history is returning to Tulsa Nov. 5-7, when The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa hosts “Nanyehi – The Story of Nancy Ward.”
“Nanyehi” is the story of Ward, a legendary woman who was first honored in the 18th century as a Cherokee war woman, but then as a peacemaker during the American Revolution.
Tickets are $15 and go on sale Sept. 4. There is a $5 discount for Cherokee citizens and for children 12 and under that can be purchased by calling the box office at 918-384-ROCK.
To tell the story, the Tulsa production features New York-based actress Michelle Honaker in the title role.
Lawton native Rudy Ramos is also a lead cast member, reprising his role of influential Cherokee leader Attakullakulla. Ramos brings nearly five decades of film, television and stage work to the production. His filmography includes “Beverly Hills Cop II,” “NYPD Blue,” “JAG” and “Hawaii Five-O.”
To fill out the cast, there will be auditions Sept. 19 and 20 from 1:15 – 4:15 p.m. at Fly Loft, which is located in Tulsa at 117. N. Boston Ave. Audition time for those who only dance will be on Sept. 19 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Prepared audition material is not necessary.
If auditioning for a singing role, bring an accompaniment CD or an accompanist, or you can sing a cappella or accompany yourself. A keyboard and a CD player will be provided. Non-singing hopefuls will read from the script. Dancers will be taught a short routine. Bring dancing shoes. For additional information, email producer David Webb at nanyehiproductions@gmail.com.
The musical is written by Nashville-based, award-winning songwriter and recording artist Becky Hobbs and playwright Nick Sweet. It has previously been performed in Hartwell, Georgia; Kingsport, Tennessee; and Tahlequah.
Hobbs is a Cherokee citizen and Bartlesville native, who is a direct descendant of Nancy Ward. As a recording/performing artist, she has performed in more than 40 countries and has had over 20 chart records. Her songs have been recorded by Alabama, Conway Twitty, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Emmylou Harris, Glen Campbell, Wanda Jackson, John Anderson, Helen Reddy, Shirley Bassey and more. She is being inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame on Oct. 16.
“Nanyehi” is presented by Cherokee Nation Businesses and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa.
For more information about the musical, visit www.nanyehi.com.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa has twice been nominated for the ACM Award for best casino venue. It is located off Interstate 44 at exit 240. Ticket prices and information on upcoming shows are available online in The Joint section ofwww.hardrockcasinotulsa.com or by calling (918) 384-ROCK. The Joint box office is open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
