presented by Celebrate Gettysburg Magazine and ChrysaLis Communications

THE ADAMS COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL IS PROUD TO BE A NONPROFIT COMMUNITY PARTNER FOR THE PEOPLE PROJECT 2026. Also on this collaborative team of non-profits dedicated to creative, connecting work in our community: Community Media of South Central PA, Gettysburg Community Theatre, The Majestic Theater, Waldo’s & Co.

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 Crossroads, Generations, 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. This exhibit will be on display at Waldo’s & Co. from November 6 – 30.

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. 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.