Experience an Encounter with Edward Curtis featuring Wyatt Earp during the Phippen Dinner Program at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Phippen Museum, 4701 N. Highway 89.

This scripted, bio-drama features the story of western photographer Edward Curtis as portrayed by Wyatt Earp, great grand-nephew of the historic Wyatt Earp, who brings life to history with his fascinating presentations. Through sound, photographs and laughter, Earp will explore Curtis’ trials and tribulations.

“I get to tell the stories that Hollywood doesn’t tell,” Earp stated in a news release, noting that’s the reason he enjoys what he does so much.

Curtis decided he would be the person who would achieve the impossible. He started a special project in 1900 — and 30 years later finished “The North American Indian,” a portfolio consisting of numerous texts, photos and wax cylinder recordings.

“The big idea? Well, to preserve the culture and the beauty of all the North American Indian tribes in perpetuity through my photography,” Earp says while portraying Curtis.

Curtis utilized his love for photography to complete this project, taking numerous portraits of the native peoples, landscape photographs of the lands they lived on and the art they created. Curtis covered tribes across the country, from Alaska all the way down to the Arizona-Mexico border. He photographed over 100 tribes and created 20 volumes worth of work. These volumes encapsulated the stories and cultures of the Native American people, the release stated.

A delicious ranch-style dinner from Catering by Liz will be served prior to the program and a cash bar will be available. In addition, the evening will conclude with a special prize drawing.

Call 928-778-1385 to make a reservation while seating is still available. The cost is $60 per person (museum members, $50).

Information provided by the Phippen Museum.