Rosetta - Story of a Soldier

“Rosetta—Story of a Soldier” is a folk rock/Americana musical Inspired by the incredible true story of Civil War soldier Lyons Wakeman. Private Wakeman, however, was not what “he” seemed to be. The five-foot tall soldier’s true identity was a young farm girl from New York state named Sarah Rosetta Wakeman, fighting for two years as a woman in the guise of a man. Wakeman was not alone in her determination, pride and commitment to “drill just as well as any man” in her regiment. Hundreds of women, from both North and South, disguised themselves as men to enlist, serving in constant secrecy, fearful of revealing their true identities. Rosetta’s rare collection of letters offers a firsthand look at the courageous character of a woman defying convention. This exclusive concert of the drama’s score, created by Portland actress/singer/songwriter Jenn Grinels, features powerful melodies, tight harmonies and beautiful yet heartbreaking experiences of a young person searching for belonging in an uncompromising world. The winner of numerous awards and accolades, this original musical is being developed in Oregon on its journey to New York City’s Circle in the Square Theatre School’s inaugural Artist Residency Program. There, “Rosetta” will be officially and formally presented to Broadway producers and investors this spring. Though historical and set in the 1860’s, the musical incorporates elements of modern folk, rock and Americana. This electrifying evening of contemporary musical theatre is especially recommended for fans of Brandi Carlile, Mumford and Sons, the Lumineers, and allies of the LGBTQ+ community. The concert features a dozen of Bend and Redmond’s best teenage and young adult singers, plus “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies” star Ari Notartomaso and Merideth Kaye Clark (“Wicked,” “Bright Star,” “Siren Songs”). The live onstage band includes Northwest performers Will Amend, Aaron Jodoin, Kyle Owen and Ross Seligman. Be among the first to experience the work already garnering tremendous buzz and support in New York’s Broadway community. Laugh, cry, tap your toes, and be moved by the power of words and music to connect our shared humanity and sustain the search for self in an ever-polarizing world. More info at: www.jenngrinels.com/rosettaproject