The Dorothy Page Story
Contributed by Bridgette Preston
Premiere of One-Woman Show, "Alaskan Wonder Woman: The Dorothy Page Story," Set to Open at the Musk Ox Farm Performance Loft.
The Musk Ox Farm and Grandmother Raven Productions are thrilled to announce the premiere of "Alaskan Wonder Woman: The Dorothy Page Story," a captivating one-woman show that pays homage to the legendary Dorothy Page, known as the "Mother of the Iditarod." The show will coincide with the Iditarod Race, the Arctic Winter Games, and Women’s History Month.
Written and produced by Bridgette Preston, "Alaskan Wonder Woman: The Dorothy Page Story" delves into the extraordinary life of Dorothy Page, an influential figure whose historical imagination left a profound mark on Alaska's heritage. Through a series of vignettes, the audience will be taken on a remarkable journey, exploring Page's life from her humble beginnings as the daughter of an Italian immigrant in a northern Michigan mining town to her adventures in Pojoaque, New Mexico, and eventually her settlement in Wasilla, Alaska. Page's contributions played an important role in shaping the unique Alaskan culture we know today, including the Iditarod Race, Wasilla and Knik Museums, and the Wasilla Public Library.
Describing the work as a "docu-drama,” playwright Bridgette Preston utilizes a historical timeline to construct the narrative of Page's life. Although Page's personal papers and artifacts were tragically destroyed in a cabin fire after her passing in 1989, Preston has meticulously employed historical context and creative license to breathe life into these engaging scenes. Preston began researching Dorothy Page before the COVID-19 pandemic and has since dedicated herself to crafting a production that will reintroduce this remarkable woman to a new generation of Alaskans.
Taking on the role of Dorothy Page is the talented Palmer resident Diana Bailey, whose inspired performance is sure to bring Page's character to life, immersing the audience in her remarkable story.
Bridgette Preston, a 48-year resident of Alaska, attended her first Iditarod race start in 1978 (the epic race that ended with a photo-finish). With 20 years of experience as an educator in the Mat-Su School District, Preston's passion for local history is evident in her frequent contributions of historical and observational photo essays to the Palmer Buzz website and producing the first “Palmer Underground Tours” in 2009.
"Alaskan Wonder Woman: The Dorothy Page Story" will be showcased at the Musk Ox Farm Performance Loft on March 1-2 and March 8-9. Tickets are priced at $15 and can be purchased by at https://www.muskoxfarm.org/events or by calling 907-745-4151.
It is important to note that all proceeds from ticket sales will go towards supporting the Musk Ox Farm, a cause that aligns with the preservation and celebration of Alaska's rich heritage.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the incredible story of Dorothy Page, a woman whose legacy continues to inspire and shape the Alaskan spirit. Join us at the Musk Ox Farm Performance Loft for an unforgettable evening of theater, history, and admiration for a legendary local woman.