Students of Spring Street International School will present three free performances of “Blood Kin and Thunder People,” a dramatic portrayal of the infamous Trail of Tears and culmination of a year-long immersion and study of U.S. history.

Presented by Spring Street 5th, 6th and 7th grade students, performances of “Blood Kin and Thunder People” are Tuesday, June 9, 7 p.m., and Wednesday, June 10, at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., at San Juan Community Theatre.

Donations are accepted and play proceeds benefit the school’s scholarship fund.

In prelude to the performance, students begin the school year by researching documentary records of a crucial historical moment. The 5th-7th grade students this year focused on the infamous Trail of Tears, the distressing and, for some, deadly march that became symbolic of the forced relocation of Native Americans ordered by President Andrew Jackson in 1838.

As part of their research, students identify names, dates, and locations of real children of whom very little else is known. Students take on those identities as they steep themselves in history and in the craft of writing in character. By the end of the year, after countless hours of preparation, practice, and cans of spray paint, they share their characters in a series of provocative performances.

The student production is directed by Spring Street International School teacher Kate Small. Admission is free.