From Petition to Parish: The Petition of Faith (1726) Immersive Cemetery Tour

Step into the past and experience the birth of a community in The Petition of Faith (1726), an immersive walking theater experience through the historic grounds of Sharp Hill Cemetery on Saturday, June 20. Guided by a young girl named Faith, audiences journey back to a time when the residents of Wilton faced a difficult challenge: traveling long distances to worship in neighboring towns while dreaming of establishing a parish of their own. As Faith carries a petition through the graveyard, visitors encounter the men and women whose courage, sacrifice and determination helped shape the future of Wilton.

Along the way, historical figures emerge from among the stones to share their stories, hopes and struggles. Meet farmers, families, community leaders, and ministers whose lives were intertwined with the effort to build a church and create a stronger identity for a growing settlement. Through moving performances and the atmospheric setting of the cemetery itself, history comes vividly to life around you.

Blending authentic local history with immersive storytelling, The Petition of Faith offers a unique opportunity to walk alongside the founders of Wilton and witness the events that led to the creation of the Wilton Congregational Church nearly 300 years ago.

This immersive theatrical experience is brought to you through the collaborate efforts of the Wilton Historical Society, Wilton Congregational Church and ArtSynergy Productions.

ArtSynergy Productions creates immersive, site-specific theatrical experiences that transform non-traditional venues into living stages. By blending storytelling, environment and audience participation, we create meaningful shared experiences that celebrate local history, foster human connection, and bring communities together through the power of live theater.

Performances will take place at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. Each performance takes approximately an hour.