Actors Needed To Bring History To Life

In the holiday crunch I forgot to post this, sent along by my pal Amy - it's of interest to actors out there, especially those with an interest in history - but you'll have to hurry, the deadline is just a day away:

The West Virginia Humanities Council is seeking applications from individuals interested in portraying historical figures as part of the council's popular History Alive! program, according to a release.

Historically significant people no longer living from any period are eligible for consideration.

The humanities council is particularly interested in proposals for characters related to the Civil War and West Virginia statehood, such as "Stonewall" Jackson, John Brown, Francis Pierpont, Arthur Boreman and others.

The application deadline is Jan. 1, 2010. Those chosen receive a stipend to support research to develop the proposed character. Proposals are limited to two potential characters per applicant and must be for portrayal of an actual person. Potential presenters must pass an audition. Selected presenters will join the History Alive! roster effective Nov. 1, 2010, for a minimum two-year period.

Each year, approximately 200 History Alive! presentations are given for schools, libraries, civic groups, historical societies and a wide range of public gatherings across West Virginia.

To apply, contact program officer Mark Payne at 304-346-8500 or payne@wvhumanities.org.