The Natchez Garden Club and the Pilgrimage Garden Club are inviting local residents to see the first night of the Historic Natchez Tableaux — for free.

Residents of Adams County and Concordia Parish are welcome to attend on Friday night, March 9. Tickets are available at the Natchez Visitor Reception Center prior to the event or at the City Auditorium ticket window before the performance. The free tickets are on a first-come, first-serve basis, and you must have identification when you get your tickets.

Perhaps you have lived here all or most of your life and never seen the Tableaux, formerly called the Historic Natchez Pageant. Maybe you have attended many times and enjoy every time you attend. Either way, you will be in for a delightful evening of informative entertainment.

The Tableaux began as a parade in 1932 and has been presented every year since except during World War II. It is presented and directed by the Natchez Garden Club and the Pilgrimage Garden Club and more than 300 community volunteers.

Beginning last year, speaking parts were added to more effectively tell the stories of our ancestors. You will experience scenes of life in Natchez from the first inhabitants, Native Americans, to the beginning of the Civil War. Characters such as the Great Sun and Tattooed Serpent, the French explorer La Salle and Major General Andrew Ellicott who on behalf of George Washington claimed Natchez for the United States and raised the flag on what is now Ellicott Hill will be brought to life.

Several years ago, live music was brought back to the Tableaux, and our “A Trace of Natchez” ensemble joined the production. Mickey Davis, director, is joined by Kati Davis, Susie Kimbrough, Tim McGivern and Robert Paradise to play period music throughout the evening. You will find yourself tapping your toes and at times even clapping your hands.

Tickets are typically $15 for adults and $7 for children.

Do not miss the opportunity to watch your friends, neighbors and their children and to enjoy it at no cost. Please join us Friday, March 9 at 8 p.m. at the Natchez City Auditorium for the Historic Natchez Tableaux.

 

Martha Salters is the Pilgrimage Garden Club Tableaux Committee co-chairman.