News Release
- For Immediate Release -

Shiloh Amphitheater Independence Day Celebration
"American Freedom"

Kalona, IA – June 17, 2003 – Preparations are underway for the 13th annual Fourth of July show at the Shiloh Amphitheater in Kalona, IA. American Freedom is a 1-hour musical production and fireworks display that honors our remarkable nation.

Over the last decade this annual show has become a local tradition. Hundreds of families come in from neighboring communities, as well as from Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, to enjoy the performance. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display amidst rolling green hills, under the starlit Iowa sky.

“If you enjoyed last year’s show, you’re going to love American Freedom” commented Rick Holbrook, the events creator. “This year, we’ll follow the spirit of freedom on a journey of song and dance to celebrate the birthday of this great nation with all-American style.”

Cast and crew from many artistic fields have collaborated to create this show. Original choreographed dances and scores of music are put together with beautiful vocals and set designs to make this American tribute. Every year, the show is written, composed, constructed, cast and rehearsed in Los Angeles, CA and then moved to Iowa a week and a half before the performance date. The sets are then assembled, the lighting is set, and the final rehearsals are held. Approximately 150 people are involved in the creation of this production, most of them on a volunteer basis. After much preparation, the show is performed for an audience of 3,000 to 4,000 guests.

The musical fireworks display is presented by the Richmond Shooters, a highly skilled group of certified pyrotechnicians from the local community.

American Freedom will take place Thursday, July 3rd due to other local activities scheduled for the 4th. In case of rain on Thursday, an alternative show is scheduled for Friday, July 4th. The show will begin at 9:00 PM in the Shiloh amphitheater, located at 100 Shiloh Drive, off of Highway 1, just south of Kalona. Bench seating and lawn seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you prefer to sit on the grass, please remember to bring a blanket. The doors will close at 8:45 PM. Admission for the show and fireworks display is only $5.00 per carload. You can purchase tickets from Shiloh or at the gate. To ensure admission, please buy your tickets early.

For tickets, more information about the show, or to find out how you can help sponsor the fireworks display, please call 319-656-3156. Also, visit our website at www.shilohamphitheater.com.