It's the Spring of 1607 when the Powhatans (the native inhabitants of what is now Virginia) first sight the strange ship arriving from England with ambitious Englishmen. Among the explorers was John Smith, who in his own words had said he had "been everywhere...done everything". Yet, Smith could not imagine the new adventure that lied in wait for him nor that his name would live forever alongside that of an "Indian" maiden.

Pocahontas became an integral and instrumental part of the relation between the Powhatans, their chief - Powhatan, and the English settlers. Her rescue of John Smith was only the beginning of her adventure. Pocahontas' capture and release by the English helped form the relationship that allowed the English settlement to survive and grow. Pocahontas later married John Rolfe and their descendants continued on in Virginia.

Pocahontas is the retelling of the original events from information gathered in the historical writings of John Smith himself, including his letter to Queen Anne. We also get an understanding of the events and happenings of the times from the writings of other Englishmen of the period, such as Gabrielle Archer and John White. This is a classic story but not a fairy tale. It is part of the American heritage.

This all new, fully staged, family musical is the latest of SAIL Productions' Storybook Theatre for Children. Previous productions have included Aladdin, Cinderella and Gulliver's Travels among others since 1990. SAIL is the nationally acclaimed, children's and family musical theatre company that entertainingly brings to life the historical happenings between Native Americans and the early European settlers. Presented with audience participation and featuring songs blending new and old cultures, Pocahontas is an engrossing retelling of this world famous story.

pocguide.rtf SAIL study guide for Pocahontas.

laspocguide.rtf LAS study guide for Pocahontas.