BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Who are the people who make Christmas City sparkle with joy?
That’s the question Touchstone Theatre is asking locals.
- Touchstone Theatre is looking for submissions for its Hidden Bethlehem project
- Participants can nominate people who make a difference in the city and unknown places
- The submissions will be featured during Festival UnBound in September
The ensemble-based venue is seeking submissions for its Hidden Bethlehem initiative, a project that will shine light on the community and places in the city that “bring joy” and are often overlooked or unknown.
Hidden Bethlehem is part of Festival UnBound, an arts-infused community celebration set for Sept. 27-Oct. 1.
“There are some truly wonderful places and people that not enough folks know about — we want you to share them with us.”Matt Prideaux, Hidden Bethlehem project leader
“There is a lot in Bethlehem that is well known, that people love and frequent, like SteelStacks or the Iron Pigs,” Hidden Bethlehem project leader Matt Prideaux said.
“But there are some truly wonderful places and people that not enough folks know about — we want you to share them with us.”
How to participate
Each submission must include a picture or video of the place or person, along with a story about what makes them a “hidden gem.”
The stories can be submitted by essay, song, dance, poetry, spoken word or artwork.
Limit stories to either one minute for video or 250 words.
“What better way to fall in love with Bethlehem, than through those who know it best”?Matt Prideaux, Hidden Bethlehem project leader
Email submissions to hiddenbethlehem@touchstone.org
The “Hidden Gem” places will be considered as potential locations for various pop-up events, online gallery and a treasure hunt.
Additionally, “Hidden gem” people and talent submissions will be in the running to share their stories or perform their talents at events — some may even be included onstage at Festival UnBound performances.
“I’m fairly new to the area," Prideaux said. "I only moved here about three years ago. So this is a really incredible way for me to get to know the city.
“What better way to fall in love with Bethlehem than through those who know it best? I’ve done all the ‘touristy’ stuff, now’s my chance to experience the real heart and soul of the place that I call home.”
About the fest
Festival UnBound, now in its fifth year, will feature both free and ticketed shows.
There also will be a family-fun block party with live bands and local LVAC wrestlers signing autographs.
Some of this year’s guest artists included singer Jesse Ruby and arts community activist Ashley Sparks.
Strike Anywhere Performance Ensemble (in partnership with Zoellner Arts Center) will lead story-gathering exercises, as well as workshops throughout the festival.
For a fun way to engage, the theatre also is looking for volunteers.
The Hidden Bethlehem events will occur all-month in September and during the festival.
For info, click here.
