Actors will bring historic figures to life at fort today

Performers in a professional touring theater company will bring some historic figures and events to life today at the Fort Scott National Historic Site.

The Bright Star Touring Theatre will present an original play, "Lift Every Voice: The Black Experience in the Heartland," at 7 p.m. in the site's Grand Hall. Admission to the show is free.

The play that is being presented is designed by the National Park Service along with producers of the Bright Star Theatre, based in Arden, N.C. The play is designed especially to celebrate the NPS Centennial and many black Americans who made a difference in the American Midwest, a news release said.

"It's a collaborative effort between many National Park Service units in the area," FSNHS Chief of Interpretation and Resource Management Holly Baker said. "We're pooling our resources to put together a tour for this theatre company."

Baker said the performance is one of several FSNHS events to take place throughout 2016 that ties into the centennial celebration.

"It's one thing to do to celebrate the year," she said. "There are important events and critical characters that are coming alive, that NPS sites are dedicated to preserve and honor."

The play is designed to meet the NPS' Centennial goal of connecting with and creating the next generation of park visitors, supporters and advocates, the news release said.

"The (theatre) company is geared toward making meaningful stories come to life for young people and families and is focused on illuminating history in a fun and engaging way," Baker said.

Baker said she has heard some reception from people who have already seen the production in recent weeks.

"They're very enthusiastic about it," she said. "There's a little comedy, a little drama, a little singing and a lot of energy. It's an all-ages show but it's especially appealing to kids."

Erin Schmidt, director of development for Bright Star Touring Theatre, said performers travel "all over the country" and plan to travel across the midwest performing this new play.