Here to Stay

The Joseph Stay Story

Music, Lyrics, and Book by
Steve Danielson

















Original performance
July 18, 2014
Stay Family Reunion
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Character Description

Joseph Stay (baritone) 53 at the opening of the play. Most of the play is in
flashback to when Joseph is younger: 20-36.
Sarah Pearce Stay (soprano) Josephs wife.
Joseph Hyrum Stay (tenor) Josephs second child and oldest son. About 24 years
old.
Rebecca Stay (non-singing) Joseph and Sarahs youngest child. About 11-years old
at the time of the play.
Peter Stay (tenor) Josephs father. English landscaper.
Sarah Musson Stay (mezzo-soprano) Josephs mother.
Henry Webb (baritone/bass) Presiding authority in Chalford, England area.
Charles Pearce (non-singing) Sarah Pearce Stays father.
Brigham Young (non-singing) President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints.
Captain Eric Donnell: (non-singing) Captain of the ship West Point.
Jacques (non-singing) First mate on the West Point.
Mary Pearce (non-singing) Sarah Pearce Stays mother.
Sarah Jane, Young J. Hyrum, Charlotte, Mary non-speaking children of Joseph
and Sarah Stay.
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Here to Stay
The Joseph Stay Story

Act I
SCENE 1

(St. Louis, 1875. In the home of the Joseph Stay family. We see Joseph Hyrum, Josephs
24 year-old son, packing up his belongings. The room is bare. He is obviously almost
done packing.)

SONG 1: Were Going to Make It.

J. Hyrum: I CANT BELIEVE IT! WERE FINALLY GONNA MAKE IT.
AT LAST WERE ON OUR WAY!
THE PAGE IS TURNING, A NEW BEGINNING,
AND NOW WERE ON OUR WAY!

SIXTEEN YEARS! FIFTEEN YEARS TOO LONG!
TOO MANY TEARS! WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG TO LEAVE FOR ZION?
(Sarah Pearce Stay, J. Hyrums mother, enters the room. She is checking to make sure
J. Hyrum has finished packing)

Sarah: I CANT BELIEVE IT, WERE FINALLY GOING TO MAKE IT.
AT LAST WERE ON OUR WAY!
THE PAGE IS TURNING, A NEW BEGINNING,
AND NOW WERE ON OUR WAY!

HOW MANY YEARS HAVE WE WAITED FOR THIS DAY?
SO FAR SO NEAR! I CANT WAIT! I LONG TO BE IN ZION.

Joseph, are you nearly done packing, dear?

J. Hyrum: Im just finishing now, Mother. Its still hard to believe that after all this
time of waiting, were finally leaving.

Sarah: I know. When we first came to St. Louis, I never thought it would take 16
years to save the money we needed to continue on.

J. Hyrum: Well, Im done. What do you need me to do now?

Sarah: Could you please check on the other children and make sure that theyre
ready. And please make sure Rebecca know where her shoes are!

J. Hyrum: Yes, mother. (Exit)
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Sarah: SIXTEEN YEARS LIVING IN ST. LOUIS
SIXTEEN YEARS! THINK OF ALL THAT WEVE BEEN THROUGH.
WEVE SAVED EVERY DIME AND PINCHED EVERY PENNY.
WE GAVE ALL FOR OUR CHILDREN IF EVER WE HAD ANY.

WEVE PRAYED TO OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN ABOVE US.
HELL PROSPER OUR WAY FOR WE KNOW THAT HE LOVES US
AND HE WANTS US TO BE IN ZION.

Joseph: (Offstage - calling) Sarah?

Sarah: In here, Joseph. (Joseph enters) Oh, Joseph, are we really going? This isnt just
a dream is it?

Joseph: Sarah, my love, for nearly 30 years, you have stood by my side through thick
and thin, through rich and through poor, on boats and on trains. Now that the time
has actually come for us to go, I feel my heart racing like I was a kid again like that
skinny boy you married all those years ago. I love you Sarah Pearce Stay and Im
taking you to Zion!

I CANT BELIEVE IT, JUST HOW LONG ITS BEEN.
AND NOW WERE ON OUR WAY.
CAN I DO THIS? NOW, AT MY AGE,
A NEW LIFE TO BEGIN IN ZION?

BUT WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
HOW WILL WE KNOW WHEN WE GET THERE?
WILL WE FIT IN
OR WILL THEY POINT AND STARE IN ZION?
(+Sarah)IN ZION!
(+J. Hyrum entering) IN ZION!

(ALL THREE)
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
THERE WELL START A NEW LIFE. MAKE OUR HOME IN SALT LAKE CITY.
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
ALL THE STREETS ARE PAVED WITH SAINTS AND THE VALLEY IS SO
PRETTY
IN ZION!

Joseph: SIXTEEN YEARS! FIFTEEN YEARS TOO LONG!
TOO MANY TEARS! WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG TO LEAVE FOR ZION?

(ALL THREE)
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
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THERE WELL START A NEW LIFE. MAKE OUR HOME IN SALT LAKE CITY.
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
ALL THE STREETS ARE PAVED WITH SAINTS AND THE VALLEY IS SO
PRETTY
IN ZION!
IN ZION!
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT OUR HOME!

(Rebecca, Joseph and Sarahs 12-year old daughter enters and runs to Joseph for
embrace)

Rebecca: Papa!

Joseph: Come here, my little Peanut!

Rebecca: (reproachfully) Papa. Im 12 years old now. Please stop calling me Peanut!

Joseph: Ill try, Rebecca, but you do have such a cute peanut nose.

Sarah: Ill go finish getting the other children ready. Come along Joseph.

J. Hyrum: Coming, Mother. (Sarah and J. Hyrum exit)

Rebecca: Papa, do we really have to leave?

Joseph: Have to? Sweetheart, we are joining Brigham Young and the Saints in Zion.

Rebecca: I know. But St. Louis is my home. This is where I was born. I know you and
mama have lived all over the place, but St. Louis is all I know. This is where my
school is. This is where my friends are.

Joseph: I see. FriendsYes, I know how important friends are. But you see, Rebecca,
its because of some of my friends that were going.

Rebecca: I dont understand, Papa.

Joseph: No, perhaps you dont. Let me start at the beginning. I was born April 24,
1822 to Peter and Sarah Stay in the parish of Milton in Hampshire, England.

Rebecca: Papa, I know this part of the story.

Joseph: (Laughing) Youre right. I guess we could move forward in the story a little
bit. Sit down, Rebecca and let me take you to England in 1842. I was about 20 years
old; my family had lived in Christchurch for a while, had moved back to Milton. My
father, and the rest of the town, was feeling anxious about the economic situation.

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SCENE 2

(Milton England, town square, 1842. Villagers are out and about, among them Peter
Stay and Sarah Musson Stay.)

SONG 2: Do I Stay?

Men: DO I STAY OR DO I GO?
IS WHATS UP THERE GOOD AS WHATS HERE BELOW?
TIMES ARE HARD WHEREVER YOU ARE, SO
DO I STAY OR DO I GO?

Women: DO WE STAY OR DO WE FLY?
CAN WE SUCCEED INSTEAD OF JUST GET BY?
SHOULD WE GIVE UP OR SHOULD WE JUST TRY?
DO WE STAY OR DO WE FLY?

ALL: SHOULD I GO OR SHOULD I STAY?
THE PROMISE OF A HAPPIER DAY
CARRIES ME ON! O, LORD, I PRAY
SHOULD I GO OR SHOULD I STAY?

Peter: I JUST BROUGHT MY FAMILY BACK TO MILTON
CAN I PICK THEM UP AND MOVE AGAIN?
DOES CHALFORD HAVE WHAT I REALLY NEED?
IS WHAT THEY HAVE FOR ME THERE GUARANTEED?

I FEEL THE LORD IS CALLING ME THIS WAY.
WHAT, WITH THIS MOVE, IS HE TRYING TO SAY?
WHATS IN CHALFORD THATS NOT HERE?
WHY IS MY HEART FILLED WITH FEAR?

Sarah M.: PETER, MY DEAR, THIS ISNT LIKE YOU.
TURN TO THE LORD, DEAR, AND HE WILL GUIDE YOU.
LISTEN TO YOUR HEART, HELL TELL YOU WHERE TO GO.
AND IF HE SAYS, DONT STAY. THEN GO!

ALL: DO I STAY OR DO I GO?
IS WHATS UP THERE GOOD AS WHATS HERE BELOW?
TIMES ARE HARD WHEREVER YOU ARE, SO
DO I STAY OR DO I GO?

Peter:
I JUST BROUGHT MY FAMILY BACK TO
MILTON
Sarah M.:
PETER, MY DEAR, THIS ISNT LIKE YOU.

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CAN I PICK THEM UP AND MOVE
AGAIN?
DOES CHALFORD HAVE WHAT I REALLY
NEED?
IS WHAT THEY HAVE FOR ME THERE
GUARANTEED?

TURN TO THE LORD, DEAR, AND HE
WILL GUIDE YOU.
LISTEN TO YOUR HEART, HELL TELL
YOU WHERE TO GO.
AND IF HE SAYS, DONT STAY. THEN
GO!

Peter and Sarah M.: AND IF HE SAYS, GO, THEN GO!

Men and Women: DO I STAY OR DO I GO?
DO I STAY OR DO I GO?
DO I STAY OR DO I GO?

(Villagers exit leaving Peter and Sarah M. alone)

Sarah M.: Peter, listen to your heart. What is it telling you?

Peter: Yes, I know, Sarah. Chalford will be good for us. I know its the Lords will, so
why do I have so many doubts about it still? (pause) What will the children say?

Sarah M.: Children? What children? Joseph and Sarah are the only two left at home;
Sarahs 16 now, and Joseph is already 20. Theyre hardly children anymore. (pause,
Peter is still usure) Theyll be fine. Youll see.

Peter: I know. I just sometimes wish life didnt have so many difficult decisions.

Sarah M.: If life were easier, then it wouldnt be life.

(Joseph enters, now looking about age 20)

Joseph: Father, may I speak to you?

Peter: Of course, Joseph.

Joseph: Alone?

Sarah M.: Oh, dont mind me. I was heading home anyway. Ill leave you two to talk
man to man. (Sarah exits)

Joseph: Sarah and I have been talking it overand

Peter: And?

Joseph: And(quickly) weve decided that were not leaving Milton.

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Peter: Oh, really? And you and your sister both feel this way, do you?

Joseph: Umyes.

Peter: Joseph, youve never been a good liar.

Joseph: I confess. I didnt talk to Sarah. This is just my idea. But, Father, why
Chalford? Why not Christchurch. We liked it there. Or why not stay in Milton? Is it so
bad here?

Peter: Joseph, let me ask you a question. If the Lord gave you direction to do
something, would you do it?

Joseph: Yes sir.

Peter: Well, that is what Im feeling now. I feel that the Lord is directing my
footsteps toward Chalford.

Joseph: But why?

Peter: Im afraid I dont have an answer for that. I pray that someday I may know
that reason, but for now Ill have to be content. Cant you do the same?

Joseph: Yes, I suppose, butwell, what about our business?

Peter: Were gardeners, Joseph. Where there are gardens, there will be need for
gardeners. Plus, the economy is stronger in Chalford right now. Its a wool town and
the wool business is thriving. When business is good, people have more money;
when people have more money, they want to spend it; and thats when they start to
call for the landscapers. We just havent had that much work here in Milton lately.

Joseph: (more agitated) But what about my friends? Do I just leave them? Chalford
is 90 miles away. I wouldnt be able to come back to see them again. Any of them.

Peter: (realization setting in) This wouldnt have to do with a certain Ms. Eloise
Sloan, now would it? I didnt realize that things were getting soum

Joseph: Serious? No, its not really. Not yet, anyway. But it couldif things were
different. If I had more work and could buy a home and had more money and could
really offer her something more than Roger Barrett. Hes got some nerve coming up
and practically snatching her away after Sunday meeting and going off

Peter: Woah, slow down, Son.

Joseph: Father, what if I never meet anyone like her again? What if they dont have
girls in Chalford? Ill be a bachelor forever!
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Peter: (laughs, realizes that Joseph is serious, and checks himself) Joseph, when the
time is right for you to marry, youll know. And youll have the right girl by your side
when that time comeseven in Chalford. Son, have faith. The Lord, for His own good
reason, wants us in Chalford. Its up to us to decide if well go. Are you ready to show
your faith in the Lord?

SONG 2A: Do I Stay? (Reprise)

Joseph: I FEEL MY HEART SAYS, STAY, BUT MY HEAD SAYS, GO.
IS THIS MOVE RIGHT? AND HOW CAN I KNOW?
HAVE FAITH IN THE LORD DAY BY DAY,
TURN TO THE LORD, KNEEL DOWN AND PRAY!

Joseph and Peter (in canon):
SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?
WHEN WILL THE LORD ANSWER US HERE BELOW?
CAN I SAY, YES, WHEN HIS WILL I KNOW?
SHOULD I STAY? SHOULD I STAY?

Both: IF HE SAYS, GO, ILL GO!
ILL GO!

SONG 2B: Do I Stay Playoff
(Peter and Joseph exit)

SCENE 3

(Chalford, England, 1845, town center. On SL, there is a crowd gathered around to
listen to a preacher on a soapbox, Henry Webb. He is holding up a copy of the Book of
Mormon. During this speech, Joseph enters from SR, now in a working coat and hat,
listens for a second then turns to his work, digging a hole for a sapling.)

Webb: And so I say again that if you read this book, and pray with a sincere heart,
God will tell you in your heart that what we have said today is true! The heavens are
not sealed! God speaks again with men on earth and He is sending them forth to
spread the good news of His gospel. Why, just recently in neighboring Ledbury,
nearly 400 men and women were taught and baptized by an Apostle of Jesus Christ.
My friends, come hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be baptized!

(the crowd begins to disperse some angrily discussing the sermon; some talking to
missionaries before leaving; some simply walking away. The stage is emptied except
for Webb and Joseph. Webb crosses.)

Webb: Good morning!

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Joseph: Good morning to you, sir. American?

Webb: Its not easy to blend in with this accent, is it? Could I ask what you are
doing?

Joseph: Im planting a tree, of course. Im a landscaper by trade and today Im trying
to beautify Chalford. Heaven knows she needs it. What brings an American like you
to Chalford, England of all places?

Webb: Im here as missionary, a preacher if you will. Let me introduce myself
properly. Im Henry Webb. (shake hands)

Joseph: Joseph. Joseph Stay.

Webb: Joseph, would you say that you are a believer?

Joseph: Sure, I believe, but not the right way.

Webb: What do you mean the right way.

Joseph: You see, around here, you belong to one of the four main churches or youre
not thought of to worship the right way. Im a member of the Congregational
Church up on Chalford Hill. What church did you say youre from?

Webb: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Joseph: Ive never heard of that.

Webb: Im not surprised. Our church is young, merely in its infancy, but the truth
rolls forth through the world again restored to earth through a young 14-year-old
boy in America named Joseph Smith. He was a farmer, a planter of trees like you, but
he was confused. With so many churches in the area around his home, Joseph didnt
know which church to join. (during this section, the dialogue will fade out and in with
the music. Webb should still talk to where Joseph was standing even when he moves).

SONG 3: The Why Ive Been Looking For

Webb: One day, he was reading in the book of James, in the first chapter.

Joseph: CAN I BELIEVE THIS? WHAT HES TELLING ME?
AND WHAT IS THIS I FEEL?

IT FEELS SO NATURAL, WHAT THEYRE TELLING ME,
LIKE IVE HEARD IT ALL BEFORE.
HOW CAN THEY KNOW WHAT THEY SAY IS TRUE?
HOW CAN THEY BE SO SURE?
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Webb: and by the power of the Holy Ghost, Joseph Smith translated and published
the Book of Mormon a record of Gods dealings with His people in the Americas.

Joseph: WHEN I LOOK AROUND AT WHAT IVE DONE
AND WHAT I THOUGHT I KNEW,
I CAN FEEL A CHANGE DEEP INSIDE MY HEART.
I KNOW NOW WHAT I SHOULD DO.

AND I KNOW THAT NOW THAT I KNOW
I HAVE A CHOICE TO MAKE:
DO I CONTINUE IN MY WAY?
OR DO I FOLLOW WHAT THEY SAY?
WHICH PATH BEFORE ME DO I TAKE?

HOW DO THEY HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS
TO THE QUESTIONS POURING FROM MY SOUL?
WHO AM I? WHERE AM I GOING?
I ASK, WHY? THEY SAY, WE KNOW!

I BELIEVE THIS IS THE WHY IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR.
I BELIEVE THAT IVE NEVER FELT THIS BEFORE.
THE LORD STEERED MY FOOTSTEPS TIME AND AGAIN.
HE BROUGHT ME HERE SO I COULD FIND HIM!
THIS IS THE WHY, THE WHY IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR.

Joseph: So, let me see if I understand. Theres a prophet on earth today? A prophet
like Moses? And Elijah? A man who speaks with God just like they did?

Webb: Just like they did.

Joseph: And you say he translated this bookthis(reading title) Book of Mormon
from plates delivered to him by an angel from God?

Webb: It is a rather remarkable story isnt it?

Joseph: Remarkable? Id say its the most incredible, impractical story Ive ever
heard. And yetmy heart is moved in ways Ive never felt. I feel its also the most
wonderful and true story Ive ever heard. I want to learn more. Mr. Webb, how do I
join your congregation?

Webb: Brother Joseph, I thought youd never ask! (Webb exits)

Joseph: HOW DO THEY HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS
BEFORE I EVEN KNOW WHAT TO SAY?
WHO AM I? WHERE AM I GOING?
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I BELIEVE THE WORDS THEY SAY!

I BELIEVE THIS IS THE WHY IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR.
I BELIEVE THAT IVE NEVER FELT THIS BEFORE.
THE LORD STEERED MY FOOTSTEPS TIME AND AGAIN.
HE BROUGHT ME HERE SO I COULD FIND HIM!

I BELIEVE THIS IS THE WHY IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR.
I BELIEVE THAT IVE NEVER FELT THIS BEFORE.
BUT ALL MY QUESTIONS
ARE NOT GONE
THE WHYS WILL BE ANSWERED
ONE BY ONE.
THIS IS THE WHY
HIS IS THE WAY
IVE BEEN PRAYING FOR THIS DAY!
THIS IS THE WHY, THE WHY IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR!

SONG 3A: Looking For Playoff
(Joseph exits)

SCENE 4

(A small LDS branch meeting in Chalford. Webb and Morsely sit at the head of the
meeting facing the small congregation. Joseph re-enters in a nicer jacket and sits on
the front row. Sarah Pearce Stay is in the congregation with her parents as well.)

SONG 4: While On This Sabbath Day of Prayer

All: WHILE ON THIS SABBATH DAY OF PRAYER
WE BOW ON HUMBLE KNEE,
HELP US FATHER, IN OUR WEAKNESS,
TURN OUR THOUGHTS TO THEE.

Webb: Brothers and Sisters, we have been richly blessed and edified in our meeting
today. Before we conclude today, Id like to take just a moment to recognize a
couple of people and ask them to stand. First, Brother and Sister Charles Pearce and
their daughter Sarah who have been visiting relatives for a couple weeks are now
back with us. And secondly, wed like to recognize the newest member of our
congregation who was just baptized yesterday, Joseph Stay.

(As Joseph and Sarah stand, their eyes meet. There are instant sparks. The scene
freezes around them. Theyre in their own world.)

SONG 5: Here to Stay

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Joseph: MY HEART IS IN A WHIRL AS I LOOK UPON THIS GIRL,
THIS GIRL WITH EYES THAT SEE RIGHT THROUGH ME.
I HOPE SHE UNDERSTANDS IF I TRIED TO HOLD HER HAND
BECAUSE I WANT HER HERE NEXT TO ME.

MY HEART IS RACING WITH EMOTION THAT IVE NEVER FELT BEFORE.
MY HEAD IS POUNDING WITH EXCITEMENT, BUT ILL ONLY ASK FOR MORE.

WAIT A MINUTE! THIS IS CRAZY!
GET A GRIP AND CHANGE DIRECTION.
SURELY THIS CANNOT BE LOVE,
BUT JUST MERE INFATUATION.

Sarah: WHO IS THIS HANDSOME BOY WHO LOOKS AT ME SO COY
AND TURNS MY WORLD UPSIDE DOWN?
MY HEART HAS SKIPPED A BEAT AND I CANNOT KEEP MY SEAT.
NOW MY LIFE HAS BEGUN TO TURN AROUND.

MY PULSE STARTS RACING WITH EXCITEMENT WHEN HE LOOKS AT ME
THAT WAY.
MY FEET START DANCING WITH THE RHYTHM OF A BRAND NEW DAY.

Both: WAIT A MINUTE! THIS IS CRAZY!
THESE THINGS I FEEL CANNOT BE TRUE.
SURELY THIS CANNOT BE LOVE,
BUT MAYBEHE/SHE FEELS IT, TOO.

Joseph: IF IM WITH YOU, THEN ILL ALWAYS BE HAPPY.

Sarah: IF IM WITH YOU, THEN ILL NEVER ASK FOR MORE.

Both: IF YOU WILL SAY THAT YOULL STAY WITH ME,
IT WILL BE MORE THAN I WAS HOPING FOR.

HERE TO STAY! FOREVER BY YOUR SIDE
HERE TO STAY! FOREVER BE MY GUIDE
THROUGH THE STORMS OF LIFE AND
THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD.

AND I KNOW WEVE HARDLY MET
AND YOU HARDLY KNOW ME YET
BUT IF YOURE TRUE TO ME
THEN TO YOU ILL GIVE MY WORD.

Joseph: SO SARAH, TELL ME THAT YOULL STAY WITH ME.

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Sarah: AND JOSEPH, TELL ME THAT YOULL ALWAYS BE TRUE.

Both: I LOVE YOU NOW AND I ALWAYS WILL!

Joseph: (kneeling) Will you promise.?

Sarah: Oh, JosephI do!

(Joseph and Sarah kiss and embrace)

Both: HERE TO STAY! FOREVER BY YOUR SIDE
HERE TO STAY! FOREVER BE MY GUIDE
THROUGH THE STORMS OF LIFE AND
THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD.

AND I KNOW WEVE HARDLY MET
AND YOU HARDLY KNOW ME YET
BUT IF YOURE TRUE TO ME
THEN TO YOU ILL GIVE MY WORD:

IM HERE TO STAY WITH YOU!

(The scene around them unfreezes. Joseph and Sarah now sit down next to each other.
Webb is still speaking)

Webb: Brothers and Sisters, before we leave today, I have one last word to say. As
many of you know, before his death, our beloved prophet Joseph Smith called for the
gathering of Israel. As members of the Lords church, we are all part of the House of
Israel and are invited to answer that call. President Brigham Young, who now
presides over the Church, asked us to extend the invitation to you to gather to the
main body of the saints in the United States of America. We know that it will be a
great expense to many of you, but wed ask you to prayerfully consider what the
Lords will is for you and your family.

(There is a murmur of excitement from the congregation. Joseph stands up, followed by
Sarah, and walks away from the congregation. During this next dialogue, Webb
pantomimes concluding remarks. He should sit down before the congregation starts
singing.)

Sarah: Joseph?

Joseph: SarahI thought my life was finally falling into place. I finally figured out
why I was in Chalford first the find the Church, then to find you but now this.
America? Me?

Sarah: You mean us.
15

Joseph: Yes, of course. Us. Oh Sarah, I have to earn a living and I need to provide a
home for youand children! How can I even think about affording to move to
America?

Sarah: We will figure it out together. In the meantime, let us do as Brother Webb
said and turn to the Lord in prayer. He will guide our path.

SONG 5A: Sabbath Day/Here to Stay (Reprise)

Sarah and Joseph:
IF IM WITH YOU THEN ILL ALWAYS BE
HAPPY.
IF IM WITH YOU THEN ILL NEVER ASK
FOR MORE.
IF YOU SAY THAT YOULL PRAY WITH ME

WE WILL LEARN THE WILL OF THE LORD!
Congregation:
WHILE ON THIS SABBATH DAY OF
PRAYER
WE BOW ON HUMBLE KNEE,

HELP US FATHER, IN OUR
WEAKNESS,
TURN OUR THOUGHTS TO THEE.

(The congregation rises and slowly comes forward around Joseph and Sarah who
should be center stage by this point)

All: HERE TO STAY! O LORD, BE BY MY SIDE
HERE TO STAY! THE LORD WILL BE MY GUIDE
THROUGH THE STORMS OF LIFE AND
THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD.

Sarah and Joseph:
AND WELL FACE IT HAND IN HAND.
WITH GODS HELP WE WILL STAND
IN THE PROMISED LAND.
I GIVE MY WORD:

All: IM HERE TO STAY WITH YOU!
WITH YOU!

End Act I
16
Here to Stay
Act II

SCENE 1

(March 1846. Home of Charles Pearce, Sarahs father. Charles is in a SR chair reading.
Sarah is in a SL with some sort of needlework. There is a knock at the door SL. Charles
makes a move to rise.)

Sarah: Ill get it, Papa.

(She opens the door. Joseph rushes in, obviously flustered.)

Sarah: Why, Joe (catches her informality in front of her father) I mean, Brother
Stay! What is it?

Charles: Yes, what is wrong, son?

Joseph: Brother Pearce, its the Saints in Nauvoo. Theyve been driven out.

Sarah: Driven out? Out of what?

Joseph: Out of Nauvoo. Out of the United States. The mob has forced them out. They
began leaving in February.

Charles: But why? Where will they go?

Joseph: The word is that they will travel west to a valley in the mountains. I dont
understand why this is happening. Why are the Saints hated so much in America?
Ive been a member of this church for less than a year, but its brought me more
happiness then Ive had my whole life.

Sarah: It must be for a purpose. This must be part of Gods plansomehow.

(There is a knock at the door. Charles crosses to open it.)

Charles: Brother Webb! Come in please.

Webb: Good evening, Brother Pearce. (entering, seeing Sarah and Joseph and
crossing to them) Ah, Sister Sarah and Brother Joseph. How are plans for the
wedding coming along?

Joseph: (Ignoring the question) Is it true about the Saints in Nauvoo?

Webb: (resignedly) Yes, its true.
17

Joseph: Why is this happening? Isnt this the Lords church? Shouldnt He be
protecting His saints?

Webb: I dont have all the answers to those questions. We cant always see the end
from the beginning, but I do believe the Lord is watching over His people.

Joseph: Brother Webb, I need your guidance. Im troubled in spirit. You mean more
to me than almost anyone else on earth because you brought Sarah and me to the
Church of Jesus Christ. I need you to speak to me as a friend. Tell me, what are we to
do?

SONG 6: Hold On To The Faith

Webb: Joseph...my dear friend,

HOLD ON TO THE FAITH THAT YOU HAVE FOUND.
KNOW THAT THE GOSPEL IS STILL ON SOLID GROUND.
PERSECUTIONS MAY RAGE AND MOBS MAY COMBINE,
BUT NO GREATER TRUTH CAN YOU EVER FIND.

NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES SATAN TRIES HIS HAND
THE CHURCH JUST GROWS STRONGER. DONT YOU UNDERSTAND?
JESUS CHRIST IS TRUTH AND THE TRUTH WILL NOT FAIL
EVEN AS THE FAITHFUL SAINTS WALK DOWN THE DUSTY TRAIL

SO PRAY, JOSEPH, PRAY WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT
LET THE LORD LEAD YOUR PATH AND HE WILL GIVE YOU SIGHT.
LISTEN TO THE LORDS COMMAND
AND YOU WILL SEE HIS HAND
AS HE GUIDES YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO THE RIGHT.

SO LIVE, JOSEPH, DONT LET LIFE HINDER YOU.
MARRY SARAH, LIVE WITH LOVE, AND YOULL KNOW WHAT TO DO.
HOLD ON TO YOUR FAITH
THE FAITH THAT YOU HAVE FOUND
AND YOU WILL KNOW WHAT YOU SHOULD DO.
YES, YOU WILL KNOW JUST WHAT TO DO.
HOLD ON TO YOUR FAITH,
THE FAITH THAT YOU HAVE FOUND.

Joseph: (half-mocking) So, you dont know what to do yet, either.

Sarah: Joseph!

18
Webb: (laughing) No, I dont know everything yet. But I aim to find out. The
command is still to gather to Zion and thats what I aim to do. It just turns out that
Zion moving to the Salt Lake valley.

Charles: Zion?

Webb: The gathering place for the saints, Brother Pearce. Now, I really hate to leave
because I love your company, but I must be off. Good-bye.

Charles: Good evening, Brother Webb.

Sarah: (to Joseph) Zion.

Joseph: Yes, Zion. I like the sound of that. Sarah, my love, after were married, do
you think that we might be able to make it to Zion?

Sarah: Joseph, with the Lord, anything is possible.

Joseph: Yes, all things are possible, but that doesnt make them easy.


SCENE 2

(1849, Various locations in America and England. Whenever there is spoken dialogue,
the ensemble should freeze in a tableau. The dialogue should take place far SR and SL
with most of the ensemble singing taking place in the center.)

SONG 7: Going to Zion

(Ensemble split into two parts one half are Saints in America, the other half are
Saints in England).

Am. Saints: WE WANT TO GO, WANT TO GO
WANT TO HEAD OUT WEST!

Eng. Saints: WE WANT TO GO, WANT TO GO
TO AMERICA!

Both: WE WANT TO GO TO ZION!

Brigham Young: (standing at a podium, addressing an imagined congregation)
Brothers and Sisters, there is a great need in the Church. Thousands of our brothers
and sisters would like to join us here in the Salt Lake Valley, but cannot afford the
expenses involved in such a venture.

19
(in the home of Joseph and Sarah. Joseph has a piece of paper in his hands. Sarah is
playing with a toddler girl(?))

Joseph: Sarah, listen to this news from Brigham Young. This is the answer to our
prayers.

Sarah: What is it, Joseph?

Am. Saints: WE WANT TO GO, WANT TO GO
WANT TO HEAD OUT WEST!

Eng. Saints: WE WANT TO GO, WANT TO GO
TO AMERICA!

Both: WE WANT TO JOIN THE SAINTS
BUT CANNOT PAY THE WAY
WE WANT TO GO TO ZION!

Young: We are establishing the Perpetual Emigration Fund Company, which will aid
those saints who cannot make the trip on their own.

Sarah: An Emigration Fund? I dont understand.

Joseph: (reading) qualifying families will be expected to earn as much of the money
as they can and then apply for a loan from the Church that will cover the rest of the
expense.

Young: This is not a gift; it is, in every sense, a loan. The Saints procuring such a loan
will be under solemn obligation to repay the loan. This will replenish the fund and
provide for other Saints to make the same journey. (exit)

Am. Saints: WERE GOING TO GO, GOING TO GO
GOING TO HEAD OUT WEST

Eng. Saints: WERE GOING TO GO, GOING TO GO
TO AMERICA!

Both: WERE GOING TO JOIN THE SAINTS
BRIGHAM YOUNG HAS PAVED THE WAY
IT WILL BE A BRAND NEW DAY
IN ZION WITH THE SAINTS!

Sarah: Joseph, were going to make it!

Joseph: Yes, someday soon, were going to make it to Zion.

20
Sarah: Someday? Why not now? Why not tomorrow?

Joseph: Its not that easy. We need to work and save as much as we can. And in the
meantime, well give anything we have left to the Perpetual Emigration Fund.

Sarah: Give? But wont we need that money for ourselves?

Joseph: I dont want anyone to be able to say that Joseph Stay didnt give all he
could to make it to Zion. Well give and well save and soonit will be our turn.

Eng. Ens.: WAIT! WAIT! THATS WHAT THEY KEEP TELLING ME. WAIT!

Am. Ens.: WAIT! WAIT! I WANT TO GO CANT YOU SEE? WAIT!

Both: WAIT! WAIT! SO ILL KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN

Man #1: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!

Woman #1: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!

(Man #1 and Woman #1 exit)

Sarah: Joseph, is it time?

Joseph: No, Not yet.

Sarah: But what else can the Lord want from us? Youve been a missionary, youve
donated to the fund. You even serve as Branch President now. Surely it must be our
turn to go.

Joseph: I will trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not upon mine own
understanding.

Sarah: Yes, of course, youre right. Thats why I love you Joseph Stay!

Am. Ens.: WAIT! WAIT! THATS WHAT THEY KEEP TELLING ME. WAIT!

Eng. Ens.: WAIT! WAIT! I WANT TO GO CANT YOU SEE? WAIT!

Both: WAIT! WAIT! SO ILL KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN
KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN

Woman #2: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!
21

Man #2: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!

(Woman #2 and Man #2 exit)

Joseph: Im growing restless. I long to join the saints in Zion. 10 years, Sarah! Its
been 10 years since I joined the Church and I still cant go.

Sarah: (Now with a newborn baby) Shhh, youll wake Mary.

Joseph: Sorry.

Sarah: We just need to continue being patient. Our time will come. In the meantime,
we need to turn our attention to our four beautiful children. Lets make sure they
know why we want to go.

Am. Ens.: WAIT!

Both: WAIT! THATS WHAT THEY KEEP TELLING ME. WAIT!

Eng. Ens.: WAIT!

Both: WAIT! I WANT TO GO CANT YOU SEE? WAIT!
WAIT! SO ILL KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN
KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN
KEEP ON WORKIN
AND ILL KEEP ON PRAYIN

Man #3: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!

Woman #3: NOW ITS MY TURN TO GO!

Man #4: MY TURN TO GO!

Woman #5: MY TURN TO GO!

Joseph: Sarahits our turn.

Both: GO!

(blackout)

SONG 7A Zion Playoff

22


SCENE 3

(1858, shipyard in Liverpool, England. Captain Eric Donnell, captain of the ship West
Point and his first mate, Jacques, are finalizing preparations to set sail.)

Donnell: Is everything ready for departure, Jacques?

Jacques: Oui, Captain.

Donnell: Have you checked the food stores and other supplies?

Jacques: Oui, Captain. I checked eet all myself and have seen zee provisions with my
own eyes. Ees zere something troubling, mon capitan?

Donnell: I dont know, Jacques. I feel wary about this trip. The West Point isnt the
ship she used to be. I just hope she holds together for another trip across the
Atlantic. (pause, then abruptly) Have you ever heard of a Mormon?

Jacques: A what, Captain?

Donnell: A Mormon. Were supposed to carry a bunch of Mormons with us to
America.

Jacques: Pardon me, sir, but what ees thees Mormon? I ave never eard of such a
thing in France.

Donnell: Its a religion, I guess, though its not one I know. I guess thats what Im
really worried about. What am I supposed to do for three months with a bunch of
religious fanatics?

Joseph: (having entered with his family near the end of the previous dialogue)
Religious? Yes. Devout? Certainly. Fanatics? Well, Ill leave that to you to decide.
Captain Donnell, I presume? (extending his hand) My name is Joseph Stay. This is my
wife Sarah and our children, Sarah, Joseph, Charlotte, Mary, and the baby is Louisa.

Donnell: The bill of passage was for 8.

Sarah: Oh, the eighth is my mother. (calling offstage) Are you coming, mother?

(An woman in her mid-60s, Mary Pearce, comes in. She is holding a satchel bag and
walks with a cane and a limp).

Mary: Im coming, Im coming. Its a marvel you noticed I was missing at all. These
legs of mine dont move as fast as they used to, you know. I dont know why were
23
leaving in the first place. If my Charles were still alive, I would stay put right here, I
would. It isnt as if a woman of my age likes to be travelling half-way across the
world. But its no good complaining. Its like my mother, bless her soul, used to say
to me when I was a child. Shed say, Mary wellI cant actually remember what
she used to say. Nevermind. (to Captain Donnell) Young man, take my bag. Its
getting heavy and you look like youve got good strong arms. My Charles used to
have arms like that, bless his soul. If he was still alive today, I would stay put right
here, I would. It isnt as if a woman my age likes to be travelling half-way across the
world. (having now made it across stage, turns back to face the family, and the
startled ship captain and mate) Well, what are you all just standing there like lost
ducks for? (raising her cane) Lets go to Zion! (exits)

Joseph: Eight.

Donnell: (hastily depositing Marys bag in the equally as shocked Jacques arms)
Rightwellwelcome aboard the West Point. We depart within the hour, so get your
family on board in that time. (Donnell and Jacques exit)

Sarah: Sarah Jane, would you take the children and go find Grandmother Pearce?
Your father and I need to talk for a moment. (the children exit)

Joseph: What is it, my love?

Sarah: Joseph, Im scared.

Joseph: What of?

Sarah: I dont knowEverything, I guess. Nothing, maybe. This is our home. Were
probably never coming back to England again! Oh, Joseph, Im scared.

Joseph: Sarah, dont think of it as leaving our home. Think of it as finding a new
home, with a new family of Saints who believe as we do. Well be in Zion.

SONG 8: Were Going to Make It (Reprise)

Joseph: CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?
WERE FINALLY GOING TO MAKE IT.
AT LAST WERE ON OUR WAY.

THE PAGE IS TURNING,
A NEW BEGINNING.
AND NOW WERE ON OUR WAY TO ZION!

WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
THERE WELL FIND A NEW WAY TO MAKE A HOME FOR OUR FAMILY.
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
24
BRIGHAM YOUNG AND ALL THE SAINTS WILL NOW MAKE OUR LIVES SO
HAPPY
IN ZION!

Sarah: IN ZION!

Both: WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
THERE WELL START A NEW LIFE. MAKE OUR HOME IN SALT LAKE CITY.
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
ALL THE STREETS ARE PAVED WITH SAINTS AND THE VALLEY IS SO
PRETTY
IN ZION!
IN ZION!
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT OUR HOME!

SONG 8A Make It Playoff
(Joseph and Sarah exit)

SCENE 4

(St. Louis, 1875. Home of Joseph Stay. Joseph Hyrum enters.)

J. Hyrum: (calling) Mother? Father? Were all ready.

Rebecca: (entering) Theyre coming soon. Isnt it exciting? Were finally going to
Zion!

J. Hyrum: Silly little Peanut. Do you even know what Zion is?

Rebecca: Yes. Papa told me all about it!

J. Hyrum: I see. Has he been telling you his story about his friends?

Rebecca: Well, he said it was about some friends of his, but I dont remember much
about that in the story.

J. Hyrum: Oh, he mentions several in that story. He told you about his father,
Grandfather Stay, Henry Webb who taught him the gospel, our mother and her
parents. And he mentioned one other I bet. One that taught him and carried him
more than any other.

Rebecca: (wide-eyed) Who?

J. Hyrum: The Lord. If father had taught me anything its that he has always trusted
the Lord to guide his path. Thats why were going to Zion.

25
Rebecca: Joseph? If I follow fathers example, will the Lord tell me what to do, too?

J. Hyrum: Rebecca, the Lord will always be there for you. Now, get on outside,
Peanut. Its time we were leaving.

(Rebecca exits as Joseph and Sarah enter).

Sarah: Is everyone ready to go?

J. Hyrum: Everyone is in the wagon, everything is packed, every corner has been
dusted and swept. I would say, were ready to go.

Sarah: Are you sure you wont just come with us.

J. Hyrum: No, Ive got to hurry back. You go visit Sarah and her brood. Ill just be two
weeks ahead of you. Ill meet you at the station as you arrive.

Joseph: (looking around) I guess this is it, then.

Sarah: I guess so.

Joseph: Just think, Sarah. In a couple weeks, well be in Zion. No more moving. No
more waiting. No more wondering what happens next. When we get there, I want to
look over the valley, just like Brigham Young, and say, This is the right place. And
Im here to stay!

SONG 9: Finale

Joseph: WHEN IM WITH THE SAINTS THEN ILL ALWAYS BE HAPPY.
WHEN IM IN ZION ILL NEVER ASK FOR MORE.
IF YOU SAY THAT YOULL GO WITH ME
WELL OBEY THE WILL OF THE LORD!

Sarah: IF IM WITH YOU THEN ILL ALWAYS BE HAPPY.

J. Hyrum: WELL TRED IN THE STEPS OF THOSE WHOVE GONE BEFORE.

All Three: IF I CAN SAY THAT THE LORDS WITH ME
THEN ILL NEVER ASK FOR MORE!

Joseph, Sarah, and J. Hyrum:
HERE TO STAY! O LORD, BE BY MY SIDE
HERE TO STAY! THE LORD WILL BE MY
GUIDE
THROUGH THE STORMS OF LIFE AND
THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD.
Full Company: (entering)
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!

AH!
AH!
26

Sarah, Joseph, J. Hyrum, Peter, Sarah M., Webb:
AND WELL FACE IT HAND IN HAND.
WITH GODS HELP WE WILL STAND
IN THE PROMISED LAND.
I GIVE MY WORD:

All: HERE TO STAY! O LORD, BE BY MY SIDE
HERE TO STAY! THE LORD WILL BE MY GUIDE
THROUGH THE STORMS OF LIFE
AND THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD.

Sarah, Joseph, J. Hyrum, Peter, Sarah M., Webb:
WERE GOING TO MAKE IT!

Company: IM HERE TO STAY WITH YOU!

All: HERE TO STAY WITH YOU!
WITH YOU!

END ACT II