CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Humanities Council is accepting applications for its popular History Alive! program, which brings historical figures to life through interactive presentations. Individuals interested in portraying historically significant figures are encouraged to apply by March 1, 2025.
The program focuses on individuals who have made important contributions to state, national, or international history. Eligible figures must no longer be living and can come from any period of history. Current History Alive! characters include notable figures such as abolitionist Harriet Tubman, author Pearl S. Buck, entertainment pioneer Walt Disney, and West Virginia soldier Colonel Ruby Bradley.
Potential applicants are encouraged to propose portrayals of diverse historical figures, including explorers, inventors, musicians, national leaders, artists, educators, military leaders, scientists, and more. Composite characters representing specific groups from West Virginia history—such as coal miners or suffragists—may also be considered, though mythical or legendary figures are not eligible.
To develop a portrayal, presenters must conduct in-depth research using first-person sources like letters, journals, speeches, and other archival materials. Selected characters are featured in programs across West Virginia at schools, libraries, historical societies, festivals, and other public events.
The application process includes a review of proposals, followed by auditions for selected candidates. Successful applicants will join the program immediately and receive a stipend from the Humanities Council for each presentation.
Interested individuals can find application materials on the History Alive! program webpage at wvhumanities.org. For additional information, contact Kyle Warmack at 304-346-8500 or warmack@wvhumanities.org.
The West Virginia Humanities Council is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit organization supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities, the State of West Virginia, and private contributions. Its mission is to advance a vibrant program in the humanities across West Virginia.
