
Local product will portray legendary Shawnee leader in 'Tecumseh
"Tecumseh!" producers are proud to announce that Colin Swackhammer will portray the legendary Shawnee leader in this year's production.
A veteran of the stage at Sugarloaf Mountain, Colin has portrayed a variety of characters on the stage over the past several years and has understudied the role.
Patrons who have seen the show since 2019 likely saw Colin swim the horse across the pond at the top of the show.
“Colin has been a strong company member for years now. He has outstanding horse riding skills, is a fine actor, and is one of the best people that has come through our company in the 16 years that I’ve been here. I’ve never been so pleased to be able to offer someone a role. He’s going to kill it out there this summer!” said producer, Brandon Cavender Smith.
Mr. Swackhammer commented: “I am so blessed for this opportunity to portray Tecumseh! As a Chillicothe native born and raised, I truly understand and feel the historical importance of this story and I want to do all that I can to honor the Shawnee and tell their story and also make my hometown proud. As I prepare for my sixth season I find myself looking back at the memories and friends I've made along the way. I have met some amazing people, including my wife, who have contributed to some of the greatest times of my life. I am so grateful.
It is an honor to be chosen to continue the tradition of retelling the story of Tecumseh. I have learned so many things about the Shawnee people including how my family tree intertwined with the Shawnee.”
Preparations are underway for the 2025 season, with rehearsals beginning in mid-May.
”There’s a lot to get done. You can imagine the work of just getting the facility ready each year after being mothballed for 6 months. Add all of that to the monumental task of mounting this epic show every year, and it all adds up to a lot of hard work done any a few dedicated people. Getting someone like Colin on board for a key role makes all of our jobs easier. I can’t wait to see what he does with the role!” Said Cavender Smith.
Ticket holders for the Scioto Society’s March 29th Founders Dinner will have the opportunity to meet Mr. Swackhammer at that evening's event.
Tickets are on sale now for the 2025 season at www.tecumsehdrama.com. The show will run on Tuesday through Saturday evenings from June 12 through August 31 at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre in Chillicothe.