Roanoke Island, N.C. witnessed a transformative and groundbreaking performance of the famous musical drama “The Lost Colony.” The play, which has captivated audiences since 1937, tells the tale of an English settlement that mysteriously vanished 436 years ago. This year, however, the production took a fresh approach, guided by Native American storyteller Kat Littleturtle. The updated version features authentic tribal songs, Algonquian language, and Native American actors bringing their culture and history to life on stage.
The Roanoke Island Historical Association embarked on a three-year endeavor to revitalize the 86-year-old play. While some changes cater to the modern audience with faster pacing and high-tech light projections, others aim to provide a more balanced perspective of history. This shift in narrative has faced criticism and resistance from longtime Outer Banks residents and fans of the original version of the play. Some argue that the modifications have strayed too far from the Pulitzer-winning playwright Paul Green’s original vision.
The play’s alumni have been particularly vocal about their concerns, organizing an online discussion about the future of “The Lost Colony” production. They are also demanding access to financial information, fearing that the changes are causing harm to the production. However, Georgann Eubanks, executive director of the Paul Green Foundation, believes that Green would support updating the portrayal of Native characters to eliminate stereotypes and embrace more accurate representations.
For Native American cast members, such as Kat Littleturtle, the changes represent a long-overdue reckoning with history. As descendants of the indigenous people who were marginalized and forgotten over the centuries, they feel a deep connection to the story of the Lost Colony. Before taking the stage, Littleturtle expressed the significance of their newfound roles, stating that the performance allows their ancestors to come alive through song and dance.
Roanoke Island itself holds a complex and enigmatic history. Known for its mysterious disappearance, the island was initially settled by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1585, pre-dating Jamestown. The arrival of English colonists led to strained relationships with local tribes, culminating in the killing of King Wingina. The colonists decided to seek reinforcements, and their governor, John White, left his pregnant daughter behind and returned to England. Upon his three-year return, he discovered the island deserted, with only the cryptic messages “C-R-O” and “Croatoan” etched into a tree and a palisade post, suggesting a potential refuge with the Croatoan Indians.
The original play, created in 1937, romanticized the English colonists’ arrival and the birth of Virginia Dare while using Native Americans as secondary characters. Recent findings, however, shed light on a more nuanced relationship between the English settlers and Native tribes. Archaeologists discovered a coil of copper wire at an Indian village near the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, indicating a potential exchange or trade between the two groups. This discovery challenges the traditional narrative of conflict and suggests a period of cooperation and coexistence.
Recent events, such as protests against racial injustice and the removal of Confederate statues, prompted a reevaluation of “The Lost Colony.” A petition demanding change gained traction, leading to modifications in the play’s script and production team. The initial performance in 2021 faced challenges, including technical issues with new technology and an adjustment period for the inclusion of Native American performers. The ongoing discussions about the play’s future highlight the tension between preserving tradition and embracing a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of history.
In conclusion, the rejuvenated production of “The Lost Colony” on Roanoke Island has sparked a spirited debate about the balance between tradition and historical accuracy. With Native American storyteller Kat Littleturtle guiding the narrative and authentic representation of indigenous culture, the play has taken a significant step towards rectifying past misrepresentations. While resistance persists, the ongoing dialogue and evolution of the play exemplify the complexities inherent in teaching and interpreting history.
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