Synopsis

"On Dreams of Dixie," a Documentary Film

It was 1861 when tattered pioneers began arriving in southern Utah's red, barren desert. Amid sacrifice and loss, many had traveled across wide oceans and unforgiving plains for a place they could call their own.

Committed to education, school classes were first held in the back of covered wagons and in the areas first church houses. In 1915, the state of Utah issued an order for the area's scattered schools to join together as one and Washington County School District was formed with 1,833 registered students.

Through heartfelt interviews and stories found in the archives of county history, 'On Dreams of Dixie' gives viewers a multi-dimensional experience and character-driven look at what it was like attending school in southern Utah's early settlement communities.

More than 28,000 students are now enrolled in Washington County schools with students learning skills that prepare them for life. Looking back over the shoulder of history, it is important to acknowledge that life in southern Utah started out at a much slower pace, when times were simple. Written and produced by Melynda Thorpe, narrated by Wilford Brimley, and with an original score by Keith R Owen, "On Dreams of Dixie" provides a powerful viewer experience.

World Premier August 1, St. George, Utah.

Production

Narrator: Wilford Brimley

Producer/Writer: Melynda Thorpe

Executive Producer: Cody Plumhof

Director/Music: Keith R. Owen

Stars: Haven Owen, Axton Shakespeare, Jeffery R. Holland, Edna Mae Sampson, Lyman Hafen, Larry Bergeson, Meg Frampton, Dia Frampton, Ken Hinton, Randy Judd, Heber Jones, Pam Graf, Paul Anderson, Madi Sonju, Macey Sonju, Kris Sewell