Through Emma's Eyes

The Musical

THE HISTORY: In the 19th century, a new religious group were a faithful group of saints lead by Joseph Smith, Jr. These folks were often misunderstood and as a result were persecuted, mocked, driven from their homes time and time again, and even murdered. Many of these persecutions took place in the Independence, Missouri region. Mine and my husband’s own ancestors were among these remarkable people and their stories live on through us and our children today.

In 2005, while going through a series of difficult challenges (miscarriages, living with relatives and not having a home of our own, husband working 1500 miles away), my dear friend, Karla Mickelson, helped me see that the Lord wanted me to use the trials and musical talents to connect with Emma Hale Smith, Joseph Smith's beloved wife. That was the beginning of the journey to write "Through Emma's Eyes".

This musical is written from Emma's point of view and covers from her early years through her death. It is a full-length stage musical with a large cast and dozens of original songs written by Jenny McKinney. It has been performed in Utah (2008), Idaho (2013), and Tennessee (2018).

Photos are from 2018 Knoxville show. Photos are (c)2018 Kimberly Jo Smith and cannot be copied or reproduced without written consent. Kimberly Jo Smith is the great-great-granddaughter of Joseph and Emma Smith.

PODCAST

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