The theme for The PEOPLE Project 2026 is GENERATIONS & CROSSROADS.

In July 1863, soldiers traversed roads from all directions until they met in a small Pennsylvania town that would become one of the most consequential crossroads in American history. Today, Gettysburg is a destination celebrated by residents, visitors, historians, storytellers, musicians, dancers, and artists. Each of these people has a unique story to tell about how they came to Gettysburg, whether as a visitor or to live and work here.

CALL FOR ARTISTS, STORYTELLERS, MUSICIANS & DANCERS

Storytellers: Write a personal, first-person narrative essay about a “crossroads” in your life (literal or figurative) and tie it back to living, working, or visiting Gettysburg, whether you just got here or your family has been here for generations. Essays should not be longer than 1,000 -1,200 words (this is a guideline – shorter is fine – up to about 5 minutes long when read aloud). For living historians, your story can include how you were inspired by the figure you portray; however, the primary focus of your piece should be YOUR experience, not the experience of the historical figure. We are looking for a variety of stories on the themes of “crossroads” or “generations” from all perspectives. While stories can reference the Civil War or Gettysburg’s role as a crossroads, this is not a requirement – this project aims to collect current stories of Gettysburg’s history, which is still happening right now, and that makes the creative telling and interpretation of your personal experiences important.

Musicians: Share music that speaks to the theme of crossroads, generations, and/or American history in Gettysburg. One or two musical numbers per participant.

Dancers: Create or share an existing piece that speaks to the theme of Crossroads, Generations, or American history in Gettysburg. One or two dances will be considered for inclusion.

Artists: Create or share an existing piece that speaks to the theme of CrossroadsGenerations, or history in Gettysburg. Include a brief artist’s statement about your piece (150 words or less), explaining how it ties to this year’s PEOPLE Project theme. A maximum of 38 pieces will be accepted into this show on a first-come, first-served basis. Maximum size is 36″ in any direction. 3D pieces are welcome. ACAC’s gallery policies apply to all works on display in this exhibition.

Commitment to participate is due no later than July 10. Artists may submit proposals for up to three pieces; however, only one piece per artist will be chosen to allow for as many artists to participate as possible. Pieces must be delivered to the Arts Council on September 24 or 25 and will remain on exhibit throughout the month of October. Storytellers will participate in one-on-one editing sessions and rehearsals with the project director throughout the summer as needed. There will be a run-through rehearsal the evening before the performance event, also at The Majestic. Please reserve both the evenings of October 14 and 15 for this project.

SPONSOR THE PEOPLE PROJECT

EVENT SPONSOR: $2,500

  • Promotion as Event Sponsor in marketing materials and social media
  • Business logo featured on the PEOPLE Project section of the ACAC website
  • Full-page ad and logo on sponsor page in program
  • Four (4) tickets to the reception for the performance event

GOLD SPONSOR: $1,000

  • Promotion as Gold Sponsor in marketing materials and social media
  • Business logo featured on the PEOPLE Project section of the ACAC website
  • Half-page ad and logo on sponsor page in program
  • Two (2) tickets to the reception for the perofmrance event

SILVER SPONSOR: $500

  • Promotion as Silver Sponsor in marketing materials and social media
  • Business logo featured on the PEOPLE Project section of the ACAC website
  • Quarter-page ad and logo on sponsor page in program
  • Two (2) tickets to the reception for the performance event

PROGRAM ADVERTISEMENTS

  • Full-Page Program Ad in color – $500
  • Half-Page Program Ad in color – $250
  • Quarter Page Program Ad in color – $150
  • Business Card Program Ad in color – $75
  • Single line acknowledgement of name or business – $50

PLUS…Sponsor or purchase a PEOPLE PROJECT program ad and take 25% off of a new marketing package and appear in the PEOPLE Project edition – September/October issue of Celebrate Gettysburg magazine!

sponsored by Celebrate Gettysburg

Questions?

Want to tell your story, perform or display your art? Contact Lisa Cordiano at lisac@chrysalis-arts.com

Want to sponsor the event? Contact development@adamsarts.org

Learn more about The PEOPLE Project in 2022 and 2024 (video produced by PA Humanities):