The United Order of Orderville: a brand-new musical debut

In the 1870s , Brigham Young estab­lished “united orders” in over 200 western towns. A united order was a social experi­ment where instead of members having indi­vidual property rights, all things were held in common and shared by all. Debuting this summer in Kanab is the musical story of the most successful one of all - the United Order of Orderville.

(L-R): Mikayla Jones, Bobbie Broadhead, Maggie Reed and Mariah Wheeler pose during week three of rehearsals. Photo courtesy of KCCA.

You may have heard that this summer marks the 150th anni­versary of Orderville’s founding. But what you may not know is that Orderville is steeped in a unique and fascinat­ing history - one where the town gathered together for every meal, wearing all the same clothes, and living in identical housing. Jobs were assigned, flocks and herds were jointly tended, and everyone lived equally.

Come celebrate lo­cal heritage through music, comedy, dance and drama! Written and produced by the folks that brought you Montezuma and the Petticoats in 2021, and Closets! in 2023, The United Order of Orderville continues in that same humorous vein - except this time with a bit more emo­tion. With a large cast of 35, and a story filled with heart, history, and fun, you’ll learn about several fascinat­ing United Order ac­counts and maybe even a little about yourself.

Shows will take place July 31 - August 5. Tickets are available at kane­countyarts.org. Ticket proceeds (minus costs) will be donated to the nonprofit Kane County Center for the Arts. A spe­cial thanks to our sponsors, including our presenting sponsors Kanab Custom Meats and Catori Canyon.