The Ballad of Old Manatee

A New Theater Experience Celebrating Manatee County History

The Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc. and The Hat Theater Collective are proud to announce The Ballad of Old Manatee, a new immersive historical drama with original folk music inspired by true events from the Village of Manatee’s origins.

The Ballad of Old Manatee tells 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!

Inspired by true events and the early settlers of Manatee County, audiences will experience this World Premiere Musical among the historic buildings and grounds at Manatee Village Historical Park, including a Florida pioneer farmhouse built in a “Cracker Gothic-style,” Manatee County’s first courthouse (1860), a one-room schoolhouse (1905), and the Church (1887).

Produced and created by Danae DeShazer and Derek Brookens, under their new company The Hat Theater Collective, 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 are on sale for $27 and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Manatee County Historical Commission, Inc. These proceeds will assist in the repairs and maintenance of the 1887 Church. Tickets can be purchased by visiting atthehat.org/tickets.

The production is approximately 75 minutes with no intermission and will have a limited run on Fridays and Saturdays, April 21 – May 6, 2023. Several scenes will take place outdoors and the audience will move locations throughout the performance.

Performance Calendar:
Friday, April 21 at 4:15PM and 6PM
Saturday, April 22 at 4:15PM and 6PM
Friday, April 28 at 4:15PM and 6PM
Saturday, April 29 at 2PM, 4:15PM and 6PM
Friday, May 5 at 4:15PM and 6PM
Saturday, May 6 at 2PM, 4:15PM and 6PM

Want to get involved? The Hat Theatre Collective is seeking professional actors for leading roles and volunteer actors to play atmospheric townspeople for the production. Open auditions will be held at the Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL, on Saturday, February 11, 12:30- 4PM. To make an appointment, please visit atthehat.org.