The statewide convention of the Arkansas PTA came to Eureka Springs last week, and their lunchtime entertainment included a musical revue of some songs from Willo Mancifoot the Musical. This original production first came to the stage last May at The Aud. The review was part of a luncheon on April 5 at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
“A trip to Eureka Springs provides extra motivation for delegates to attend,” ARPTA President Shelly Anderson said. She said during the planning for this event, she was continually surprised by the support and hospitality she encountered in “this magical little town.” She said the creative environment here helps make this an attractive place for her group to meet. “Eureka Springs provides the perfect climate for fresh ideas, and the PTA has to constantly evolve in its century-long mission to advocate for children and families,” she said. More than 75 delegates from across the state attended.
When PTA officers came to Eureka Springs to begin planning, they saw artwork and promotional materials for Willo Mancifoot at the Chamber of Commerce. They contacted Valerie Hubbard Damon, who co-produced the musical. Damon had also written and illustrated the book that inspired the musical.
In a breakfast meeting at the Crescent Hotel, Anderson and Audre Darling asked Damon about recreating part of the show at the convention. Darling, vice-president for membership, is serving as convention chair. “We had a real Eureka moment,” Darling said. Damon designed a logo for the event, adapting one of her Willo characters. She also suggested the theme, “Create the Dream.” The PTA is making a donation to Main Stage in appreciation for the entertainment.
Damon wrote and illustrated Willo Mancifoot and the Mugga Killa Whomps more than 30 years ago. She teamed up with Cathrin Yoder to create a musical version of the story. The musical carries the same message, “the more you give, the more you get.” The stage presentation included colorful sets and costumes to help engage a young audience.
This event gave Damon and the others involved in the original production a reason to revisit Willobee Land and the young performers who brought it to life. “It’s another opportunity to nurture their talent,” she said. “Plus, we just love the chance to be around them again.” The performers will have a supportive audience, people who have traveled from across the state to discuss ways to grow healthy, happy kids.
Damon leapt at the chance to reach such a broad audience. “The goal has always been to network this message through other theater groups,” she said. She would love to see the play’s message shared in other areas, and the original sets are available for others who wish to present the play.
Larry Horn, who directed the original production of Willo Mancifoot, is directing this presentation. The PTA asked about having the original sets, those fanciful creations of Marvin Jonason. Moving those sets in and out for such a short presentation would have involved some serious logistics, Damon said, but she planned to bring some more portable props.
Narrator Larry Wagner will make a return appearance with his top hat, cape, and rich voice. Cathrin Yoder, who created the music, will accompany the singers.
Friday’s luncheon served an anticipated 300 people in a large tent. In addition to the PTA delegates, children and their families from across the state attended as statewide winners in national contests in poetry, visual arts, and other areas. Turpentine Creek staff delivered a presentation at the luncheon, and afterwards they offered guided or self-guided tours of the refuge.