The Ballad of Old Manatee

The Hat Theater Collective, Bradenton’s Best Live Theater (Gold Winner), is proud to announce the return of “The Ballad of Old Manatee,” an immersive historical drama with folk music inspired by true events from the Village of Manatee’s origins.

In partnership with The Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc., and the Manatee Village Historical Park, “The Ballad of Old Manatee” will return to the Historical Park on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, April 4 – 20, 2024.

“The Ballad of Old Manatee” dramatizes the dynamic love story of James C. Vanderipe and Sarah Lee—and an intense conflict between James and Sarah’s father, the Reverend Edmund Lee. This conflict, shrouded in mystery and intrigue, leads to James’ death and burial in what is called “The Lonesome Grave.” History meets mystery in this unique theatrical experience!

“Informative, speculative, engaging, and entertaining…a great way to bring life to this local historical treasure.” – Sarasota Herald Tribune

Inspired by true events and the early settlers of Manatee County, audiences will experience this immersive performance among the historic buildings and grounds at Manatee Village Historical Park, including a Florida pioneer farmhouse built in a “Cracker Gothic-style,” and the 1887 Church.

“The purpose of The Hat Theater Collective is to be a catalyst for change, community, and conversation,” shared Danae DeShazer, Producing Artistic Director and Co-Creator of The Ballad of Old Manatee. “With our world premiere musical, we achieved just that in 2023. I’m thrilled to be able to produce and present this beautiful and tragic story for Gulf Coast audiences yet again. Last year, we not only created a completely new and immersive theatrical experience, but we were also able to raise thousands of dollars for historic preservation. That is how the arts can shape a community.”

Produced by The Hat Theater Collective, and co-created by Danae DeShazer and Derek Brookens, this interactive and unique theatrical experience will also serve as a fundraiser for the Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc. maintains the historically significant buildings within the Manatee Village Historical Park in order to preserve and share the heritage of Manatee County’s founding period (1840-1918).

Tickets go on sale March 1, 2024 and will be available for $27. The production is approximately 75 minutes and will have a limited run on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, April 4 – 20, 2024. Several scenes take place outdoors and the audience will move locations throughout the performance.