A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE STORY ACT ONE begins with the Pilgrims deciding to leave the tyranny of the Old World behind them. King James grants them a Charter for a Colony in the New World, glad to be rid of these religious trouble-makers. We see the effect the Pilgrims' project has upon the marriage of Billy and Dorothy Bradford, how it divides them, and eventually leads to Dorothy's tragic end. In contast, we follow the loving relationship of Stephen and Elizabeth Hopkins, which culminates in the birth of the Colony's first New World baby. Passage is open to all, and the MAYFLOWER sets sail with both Pilgrims and several so-called Strangers aboard. Prejudice preys upon the Manifest Souls, disturbing their individual dreams of a hopeful future. A harrowing storm at sea thrusts the MAYFLOWER well into North Atlantic waters, far beyond the bounds of the King's Charter, inciting chaotic self-interest. The Pilgrims and the Strangers realize that both order and freedom must prevail in Plymouth Colony. Before going ashore they sign the Mayflower Compact, establishing the first democracy in the New World. ACT TWO opens with the introduction of the local Indians, who have barely survived a winter of plague and famine. Their warriors warn the Great Chief of the imminent danger posed by the invaders from across the Great Waters Surviving the same harsh winter, the Pilgrims are plagued by sickness and death as well, losing half their number. Mistrust and suspicion threaten the survival of both tribes, Indians and Pilgrims alike. Against the counsel of his warriors, the Great Chief of the Wampanoags eventually meets and welcomes Billy and the Pilgrims. Reason, dialogue, and trust overcome ignorance, silence and aggression. A Treaty of Peace is established. Blessed with a bountiful harvest brought about by mutual co-operation and friendship, the Pilgrims and the Indians celebrate with an abundant Feast of Thanksgiving. ........................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................... words and music (c) 1972 1975 1979 by Scott Joseph Busath ................................................................................................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .