Up Next Productions has chosen to tell this story about one man’s dreams to provide a better life for his family. The plot is heavily inspired by the mechanics and memes of the video game, and brought to life in hilarious scripted and unscripted flair. With 6 actors playing dozens of pioneers and personalities along the eponymous trail, backed by a 5-piece band fueling the drive for Manifest Destiny, this show is a fantastic example of Up Next’s mission to provide showcases for excellent artists, as well as our theme of telling stories about the making of art itself. By leaning into the improv aspects of the performers-as-characters and inherent audience participation, The Trail to Oregon! blends the passive perception of a live performance with the active role (and responsibility) of a Player playing a video game.