For 27 years, Matt Coleman has been an integral part of the Walnut Grove Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, a beloved annual event that brings the world of 'Little House on the Prairie' to life. What makes his dedication truly remarkable is the deep personal connection he has formed with the cast and crew, treating them as an extended family. This article delves into the heartwarming story of Coleman's journey, exploring the significance of the pageant, the characters he has portrayed, and the unique bond he shares with the community.
A Family Affair
Coleman's involvement began in 1998 when he took his children to witness the pageant for the first time. The experience left such an impression that the following year, his daughter, then 12 years old, expressed a desire to be part of it. This marked the start of a dedicated commitment, as Coleman traveled back and forth to Walnut Grove for the next two years to support his daughter's participation. By 2000, he decided to take the plunge and join the cast himself.
"I’ve been in it ever since. They can’t get rid of me now," Coleman quips, highlighting his enduring passion for the pageant. Over the years, he has played a diverse range of roles, from small parts with minimal dialogue to more substantial characters like Dr. Hoyt and Rev. Alden. However, it is his portrayal of Eleck Nelson, a saloon owner and close friend to the Ingalls family, that has become his favorite.
Nelson's role is particularly significant as he plays a pivotal part in saving Charles Ingalls from a prairie fire. This character, while fictionalized, is based on a real-life Eleck Nelson, whose grave lies in Walnut Grove. Coleman has even visited the grave, adding a layer of historical authenticity to his performance.
A Pageantry of Challenges and Joys
Coleman's experience in the pageant has been filled with memorable moments, both lighthearted and challenging. One instance stands out: during a live performance, a raccoon darted across the outdoor stage, adding an unexpected element to the show. Coleman recalls feeling lucky, as it appeared as if the raccoon was part of the performance.
Another incident, however, could not be dismissed so easily. A horse with a full-sized buggy attached became spooked and started running off. Thankfully, no one was harmed, but the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live performances. "He ran through the gate, ran out on the blacktop, and ran home before they caught it, with the buggy still attached," Coleman recounts.
A Second Family
Despite the challenges, Coleman finds the experience deeply rewarding. The daily commute of 40 minutes back and forth is a small price to pay for the sense of community and family he has found in the cast and crew. "I watched these kids grow up and get invited to their graduations, get invited to their weddings, you know? From the time they were 6 years old, till they’re out of college, and start getting married. It’s neat watching the kids grow up," he reflects.
The pageant's first performance is on Friday, with subsequent shows on July 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25. Gates open at 7 p.m., and the pageant begins at 9 p.m., lasting approximately two hours. As Coleman continues to play a pivotal role in the pageant, his story serves as a testament to the enduring power of community and the magic that can be created when people come together to celebrate a shared love for history and storytelling.
