GUNNISON — An evening of music, storytelling and community reflection will take center stage in Sanpete County as “Our America: Voices of the West” comes to the historic Casino Star Theatre on Monday, April 13.
The free event, beginning at 7 p.m., is part of the nationwide America 250 celebration and aims to bring together local voices and Western traditions in a meaningful community gathering.
Blending live performances with storytelling, the program will explore what America means through the lens of Central Utah life. Organizers say the evening is designed to resonate with audiences of all ages while highlighting both heritage and the next generation.
Headlining the event is acclaimed Utah musician and storyteller Clive Romney, known for his work preserving pioneer and Western history through music and narrative. His presentation, “American History at the Crossroads of the West: Utah,” weaves together original music, poetry and historical imagery to connect Utah’s past with the broader American story.
Joining him is award-winning cowboy poet Sam DeLeeuw, a Sanpete County resident whose work reflects a lifetime in Western culture. A five-time International Western Music Association Female Poet of the Year and a recent inductee into the Utah Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, DeLeeuw is known for performances that balance humor with heartfelt reflections on rural life.
Also featured is Sam DeLeeuw, an award-winning cowboy poet whose work reflects a lifetime rooted in Western life.
In addition to professional performers, local students will play a central role in the evening. A youth speech contest invites students in grades 9-12 to share their thoughts on the theme, “What does America mean to you, and how does your community help shape that story?” Finalists will present their speeches live during the event, with cash prizes awarded to top entries.
Student musicians will also have the opportunity to perform the national anthem as part of the opening ceremony, which will include the posting of the colors by American Legion Post 105.
Organizers say the inclusion of young voices alongside seasoned performers is intentional.
“It’s a chance to come together as a community, enjoy a meaningful evening, and hear stories that feel close to home and reflect who we are as Americans,” said Executive Director Lori Nay.
The program will run approximately 75 to 90 minutes and is open to the public at no cost. Students interested in participating in the speech contest or national anthem performance must apply by April 7. Additional details are available through the theatre’s website.
Presented by the Casino Star Theatre Foundation, the event is part of local America 250 commemorations and is supported by a wide range of community sponsors and arts organizations.
“Our America: Voices of the West” will serve as the final live performance of the season at the Casino Star Theatre. While concerts and live events will pause for the summer, the theatre will continue its regular movie schedule, with live programming set to resume in September.
Since its founding in 2004, the Casino Star Theatre Foundation has worked to preserve one of Utah’s historic movie houses while offering a variety of cultural and educational programs. Events like this one continue that mission, bringing together art, history and community in the heart of Sanpete County.