Gold in the Hills

Vicksburg Mississippi is famous for many reasons. Most notably it's importance during the American Civil War. It was a prosperous town of trade, and it was used as a sort of depot for the Confederate forces. Heavy barges moved up and down the river, supplying troops, cargo, and supplies. The Union forces could not attack Vicksburg from the river, so they dug a canal on the west side of the Mississippi to circumvent the city. The Union forces landed further south in Natchez, and worked their way northeast eventually moving west and laying siege to the hilly city. After 40 days the city surrendered on July 4th. Because of this, the city did not celebrate Independence Day for over 100 years. The loss of Vicksburg was a detriment to the Confederate States and was one of the nails in the coffin for them.
In 1929, Vicksburg was once again in the news, during the big flood of the Mississippi River Valley. The efforts put forth by the city of Vicksburg led to the establishment of ERDC the Engineering Research and Development Center which makes great technological leaps in studying the river, as well as other bodies of water. It is an important research center with both civilians and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
One of the more little known fames of Vicksburg is "Gold in the Hills" a melodrama set in the 1890s. The play was not written in Vicksburg, nor does it take place in Mississippi at all; however, the play has been performed annually since March 28, 1936. That's right, this march "Gold in the Hills" celebrates its 75th anniversary of being performed in the City of Vicksburg. The play was originally performed on the Riverboat "Sprague"
The Sprague was the largest stern-wheel paddle towboat ever built, which held the world record of tonnage moved, funny enough it also held the record for tonnage lost. In the 1930s the city of Vicksburg purchased the Sprague for the price of $1.00. The riverboat was then converted into a museum and floating theatre. It was also featured in the 1951 film "Showboat" Unfortunately in 1974, the Sprague caught fire and burned, eventually sinking 9 years later. After the Sprague caught fire, "Gold" moved around to different venues until the Parkside Playhouse(known locally at the Little Theatre) was built, giving it a permanent home. Again, "Gold" was in danger when Parkside Playhouse caught fire destroying many of the sets, props and costumes for the play. However, "Gold" continued on, again needing a temporary home until the Little Theatre could be repared.
The show must go on, and it has for 75 continuous years, giving Vicksburg and "Gold in the Hills" a place in Guiness' book of records for the longest running melodrama in the world.
The show itself is an olde tyme melodrama, consisting exaggerated dialogue and gestures as well as music. There are 3 main characters: a handsome hero, a innocent heroin, and a dastardly villain. There is also an ensemble of supporting characters. During the 3-act play the audience is encouraged to participate by cheering for the hero, booing the villain, and (until recently) pelting everyone with peanuts. The peanuts were a big part of the show for many years and after the Theatre fire they've been on hiatus; however they will be brought back for a special presentation of "Gold" on the 28th.