Auditions being held for historical reenactors, storytellers in Philly ahead of America's 250th

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- As we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday, all eyes are on Philadelphia, the birthplace of our nation.

To make sure we have a full cast of historical reenactors to properly and enthusiastically tell our story, Historic Philadelphia is hosting auditions this week.

If you feel like there's a George Washington or a Betsy Ross in you, get your headshot ready for the role of a lifetime!

At the Betsy Ross House in Old City, Anna Fiscarelli-Mintz is one of the historical interpreters portraying the Philadelphia seamstress who famously made the first American flag.

"I did have to learn how to sew when I became a Betsy," she says.

She says this job combines her two passions: history and theater.

"In college, I came to the Betsy Ross House and waited until all the other visitors were gone and pestered the 'Betsy' and asked, 'How did you get his job?' And she told me," says Fiscarelli-Mintz.

It all starts with auditions, which are happening in Philadelphia this week.

"You'll send us an email with a headshot and a one-page resume, and then you'll get an invitation," says Johanna Dunphy, Artistic Director for Once Upon A Nation.

You will then receive a script to audition for a full cast of reenactor roles, or as they call them, "History Makers."

Courtney Mitchell has portrayed the role of Margaret Woodby, a free Black woman who ran a business as a cake baker in the 18th century, for 16 years.

"I do this job every day and meet people," Mitchell says. "You have a little kid looking at you, and they're learning about this idea for the very first time. It's new to them, and then it's new to you."

Mitchell has a degree in theater.

"If you're a theater kid, or if you love 'Hamilton,' come on out," says Dunphy. "You don't need to know the history coming in. I didn't!"

They're also hiring more storytellers for the Once Upon A Nation program, located at designated benches in historical spots.

"Don't you want to be a part of this story of Philadelphia on its 250th birthday?" asks Dunphy.

Auditions run January 20 - 22. You must be 18 years or older to audition.

For more information, visit:
HistoricPhiladelphia.org.