Fourteen years ago Sweet Land the Musical was an idea in my head. Within those 14 years, I got the rights from Ali Selim (screenwriter & filmmaker) and Will Weaver (original short story writer). I wrote the first draft; I had a casual reading at my home. Next, I brought on Laurie Flanagin Hegge. Laurie & I brought Dina Maccabee (composer), Robert Elhai (orchestrator) on to our team. Before anyone, I asked Ann Michels (Inge) to help bring this immigrant woman’s story to the stage. Workshops followed (five in all) Buffalo Gal Productions, Nautilus, and History Theatre all helped to bring Sweet Land to fruition for its premiere at the History Theatre in 2017. Thank you to those who saw the live production at History Theatre, our MN Tour, Taproot Theater in Seattle, Anoka Ramsey, and those of you that took the time to watch Sweet Land streamed Oct. 9 – 22, supporting the arts and History Theatre in these days of Covid 19! It was always my mission to bring Inge’s story to remind everyone where we came from, why we are here in America. My Grandfather, Franz Hakala was a driving force for me, having immigrated to America from Finland when he was 5 years old. My co-creators, cast, and patrons have shared their family’s journeys with us. Hearing the effect Sweet Land has on reminding people of their heritage is the most important aspect of this show. There are so many stories to tell, to write, to remember. This is the last day of streaming Sweet Land (Oct. 22nd). Sincere thanks to all who know how important this project is to me and my creative partners. I leave you with the opening lyrics…
EVERY PLACE HAS A STORY
EVERY PERSON HAS THEIR TIME
EVERY TALE HAS AN ENDING
DON’T KNOW YOURS, DON’T KNOW MINE
EVERY END HAS A BEGINNING
ALL BEGINNINGS HAVE AN END
IN BETWEEN COME ALL THE HOURS WE CAN BARELY COMPREHEND
AND WE HOPE WHAT CAME BEFORE US WAS A STORY BORN OF LOVE
TRUST THE EARTHTRUST THE SUNTRUST IN GOD ABOVE
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