Bring history to life: Join Historic Philadelphia as a Storyteller or History Maker

Are you ready to bring the past to life? Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI) is on the hunt for dynamic, engaging actors (18+ and all backgrounds welcome) to join their team of Storytellers and History Makers.

As a Storyteller, you’ll command a storytelling bench in Philadelphia’s historic district or Valley Forge National Historical Park, spinning fascinating tales of America’s early struggles and triumphs. You'll dive into history, enchant visitors with epic stories, and share insights about the iconic spots where you’re stationed. Bonus: paid training gets you prepped and polished for the job.

    Photo courtesy Historic Philadelphia, Inc.
  

If full-on character immersion is more your style, step into the shoes of a History Maker. You’ll portray real people from Revolutionary-era Philadelphia, chatting with curious visitors about what life was like back in the 18th century. Who wouldn’t want to help guests feel like they’ve traveled through time?

“The Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are Philadelphia’s creative, historically-accurate, goosebump-inducing version of a ‘history trail,’ with real stories told right in the spot where they took place during the past 300 years, all while helping the visitor navigate the Philadelphia Historic District’s treasures,” stated Amy Needle, President and CEO of HPI. “In 2025, Historic Philadelphia, Inc. will celebrate the 20th Anniversary season of the Benches, and we can’t wait to have an expanded roster of Storytellers and History Makers to help our visitors create memories for a lifetime.”

    Photo by R. Kennedy for GPTMC.
  

The ideal candidate will have:

• A flair for the dramatic (acting chops = awesome, but not a must)
• A knack for connecting with people and keeping history fun and engaging
• A little love for improvisation and scripts
• A curiosity about 18th-century Philadelphia and the American Revolution
• A flexible, team-player attitude—because history’s more fun with friends

This part-time gig runs June through October, with training starting in February 2025. You’ll work weekends, holidays, and earn $16-$18/hour ($14/hour for rehearsals). Ready to audition? Mark your calendar for January 24-25 and let your resume show off why you’re perfect for the part.

Turn your love of history into a performance people won’t forget. Visit www.historicphiladelphia.org for all the details.