Illinois Poets Return to the Stage at Lincoln’s New Salem

The voices of Illinois’ most celebrated poets will once again echo through the Sangamon River Valley as The Sangamon River Poets: Masters, Lindsay, and Sandburg returns to the stage at Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site on November 8 and 9.

Written by Dennis Camp, the play is being revived 44 years after its world premiere at the Sangamon Auditorium. The performance brings to life the words and spirit of Vachel Lindsay, Edgar Lee Masters, and Carl Sandburg—three literary giants who captured the essence of the Illinois prairie through poetry, prose, and music.

This year’s cast features Rich McCoy, Tom Lawton, and original cast members Leigh Steiner and Kevin Purcell. The production also includes original and traditional music performed by Wild Columbine, adding a rich musical layer to the dramatic interpretation.

Performances will take place on the indoor stage at the Lincoln’s New Salem Visitor Center. For more information, contact tipboxoffice@gmail.com.