This Is The New Pageant Coming To Manti Next Year

Manti is stirring again with plans for a new pageant. For 52 years the “Mormon Miracle Pageant” was performed on the grounds of the Manti temple, but ended in 2019. Now an ambitious project is bringing something new to this city in Sanpete County.

A New Focus on Freedom

The Pageant in Manti became a tradition in Utah and became a focus of the town and surrounding communities in the summer months. When it ended and the crowds no longer came, it effected businesses and left locals feeling like something was missing.

This new pageant is the inspiration of Ned Armstrong who saw the potential to rally the community to bring a new production to the area. The theme would be broader by focusing on freedom.

Armstrong’s story of how this idea has progressed is fascinating. He has decided to focus on a lesser known figure in American history who had a huge impact on how the constitution was formed and how the government runs.

John Lothropp’s Story of Struggle and Triumph

Armstrong came across the history of a man who was born in England back in 1584. His name is John Lothropp (also spelled Lothrop) was put in jail by the Church of England for teaching his flock doctrines that didn’t align with the state religion.

Eventually he and his followers were sent to live in America where he became a strong proponent for the separation of church and state. His story of living a life of integrity became the basis for the pageant’s story.

Lathropp's ideas helped shape early colonist beliefs and eventually the Constitution that formed the basis of the country. It is also amazing to see the prominent descendants of the man that includes presidents, movie stars, and religious leaders.

The pageant will begin in 2026. There is much work to be done and they need to raise a lot of money, but it is quickly gaining momentum. If you want to know more there is much in the above video and you can check out spiritoffreedompageant.com