Riders of the Purple Sage: The Making of a Western Opera

In 1982, inspired by mountain men and legends of the Old West, brothers Troy and Powell “Gil” Gillenwater walked across Arizona. They weren’t chasing fame or following a mapped route because there wasn’t one. They were Trailblazing. What began as a homegrown adventure became a journey that reflected the rugged beauty of the Southwest. Accompanied by two mules, a stray dog, and a handful of topo maps, they faced snowstorms, irate ranchers, mule mishaps, a closed Grand Canyon, and the constant challenge of finding water. Their trek was a rebellion against convenience. Today the Arizona Trail, a National Scenic Trail, offers that same spirit of discovery, but its roots trace back to Native Peoples, prospectors, outlaws, and two brothers who believed that if no path existed, they would create one.

An intimate exploration of the relationship between humans, nature, and the place we call home. Wildlife reveals how all living beings are connected. Animals also teach us about loss, rebirth, and resilience. We take flight to explore the profound significance of feathers within indigenous cultures, and the gifts of animals in our everyday lives.