The Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society (CHAPS) held its Annual Historic Hayride and Ghostwalk Thursday and Friday November 6^th and 7^th at the Cherokee County History and Arts Museum. The experience last year was more than moving and exciting; it was one of the most professional productions in the Upstate of South Carolina that I attended in a very long time. This year the Historic Society in Gaffney “out-walked and out-performed” themselves to SOLD OUT CROWDS with each step on the Ghostwalk; from the walk through the new Museum to the end at Oakland Cemetery. Accolades go first and foremost to chc associates casting and services and CHAPS for the script, written and produced by CHAPS Board Member and Director Christopher H. Cline, for brilliantly placing each of us in the truth of our history, our beginnings. As some would say, the truth hurts; but it is truth just the same. And others say that which doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.

It is rare for the average person to find entertainment and education this socially responsible with a voice of pride and truth outside of professional theatre. CHAPS should be commended for engaging not only the professionals who produced this production, but for accepting the task at hand and bringing it to life in such a warm and understanding tone of how this country began, specifically the area of Cherokee County.

There were so many facets to this production this year and each one outstanding on its own merits, adding texture and color to the production as a whole. Special accolades go to chc associates for the writing, direction and costuming. Not what one would expect for historic representation, the “style of the garments was accurate but different fabrics were used and accentuated the performances with a special illumination.” This was an exceptional production and the attention to detail was amazing, especially the creative lighting that came from the Hosts and Tour Guides in the way of small intense flashlights. This was very effective, especially in the darkness of trees in the cemetery.  The “soul and spirit” of this year’s KEYS TO THE PAST was definitely one of love and unity wrapped in the security of truth. A strong social commentary relative to today’s world direction, this year’s chapter of KEYS not only moved the audience further but gave them the tools to continue sharing the blessings and lessons of the past.