Voices of the Past: The Underground RR in Illinois
Location: Naperville, IL
Type: Educational
Scope of Program:
Voices of the Past: The Underground Railroad in Northern Illinois is an interactive theatrical experience about the time leading up to the Civil War. This “theater in the buildings” program immerses students as they take on the role of apprentice journalists in 1856. Students (7th-8th grade) play a role in the stories of the townspeople who represent differing viewpoints in this pivotal time in American History. This engaging and emotive program leads students on a journey to meet with abolitionists, southern sympathizers, a freedom seeker, along with other townspeople as they share their perspectives about slavery. By their interactions with the people portrayed in this first-person presentation, they come away with a better understanding of the events that led to the Civil War.
Role of Freedom Seeker:
The role of “Freedom Seeker” (an enslaved person on route to Canada) is part of a scripted program that takes place in our historic buildings. The role is primarily a monologue that lasts about 15 minutes and is repeated about six times over two hours with a summary conclusion with other actors (primarily our trained museum educators and historical interpreters) that lasts 20 minutes. We are seeking:
• African-American
• Male or female
• Age 20s-40s
Actor Requirements:
The actor needs to be in place 30 minutes prior to start and provide their own 1850s period costuming. In addition, actors must have references and pass a criminal background check. We would prefer if they had prior experience working with children. The actor needs to provide their own transportation.
Payment: Paid
City or Location of call: Naperville, IL
Please submit to: nhsdle19@gmail.com by 2022-01-09
headshot-please contact me for more information
This casting notice was posted by: Jeanne Schultz Angel, Naper Settlement