What is the story behind the show's creation?

When they heard President Benson articulate his “vision” for filling the earth with the Book of Mormon in the LDS General Conference of October 1988, Dale and Ramona Zabriskie, who had taught the Book of Mormon in Seminary, Gospel Doctrine and Especially For Youth classes, took it as a personal challenge to do their part to see it fulfilled. Little did they know at the time that such a dream would require nineteen years investment as they and long-time friend Becky Alexander, worked steadily to formulate a full-scale musical drama incorporating a cast of twenty-five, plus a choir and orchestra.

The Zabriskies knew the time and place were right to workshop the show when they moved to Southwest Washington in 2005. As Stake Music Directors in the Vancouver West Stake, they enjoyed the full support of then Stake President, J. Kenny McEwan, and subsequent stake president Dean M. Barrus, as well as neighboring Vancouver Stake President, David L. Garner. The stakes partnered as producers and used the show to encourage missionary work. Other helpful associations came through Portland Mormon Choir and Orchestra, as well as the active network of LDS musicians spread throughout the greater Portland/Vancouver area. Local press picked up on the event which also helped draw in the community.

Exceptionally talented members from many stakes came forward to offer their support. The Creative Team of twenty professionals and semi-professionals, as well as the original company of one hundred people collaborated so that With Mine Own Hand evolved into a beautiful and imaginative piece of musical theatre.