Journalism Next | Manatee School of the Arts

BRADENTON -- Spooky tales from Manatee settlers are coming from Manatee Village Historical Park as part of a play called "Spirit Voices from Old Manatee."

If you are looking for a blast from the past, this is the show for you, said Melissa Porter, education and volunteer coordinator at the park, 1404 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton.

"The average guest learns about the first settlers of Manatee County, their trials and tribulations, Manatee's involvement in the Civil War, and how our community was shaped and grown,"

"Spirit Voices from Old Manatee" showcases settlers' stories from the past with presentations staged in the local graveyard.

The play has grown from its original staging by nine additional shows, several new characters and a new Victorian mourning custom exhibit for an improved audience experience, organizers said.

Originally, only 100 people could view the show; this past run, more than 500 could.

The audience plays a part of the production, too.

"This event has employed talented actors who interact with the audience using storytelling and other engaging elements," said Meaghen Swedo, a Manatee School of the Arts senior. "Those who attend the performance usually leave entertained and in a positive state of mind.

In addition, despite the physical strain that volunteers endure, we tend to leave satisfied, as well.

"If it inspires happiness, that's good enough for me," she said.

The show ran this year from Oct. 2- Oct. 19, but the historical park has many other fun activities in which visitors can participate, including restored historical buildings, a barn and a church.

Money earned from admission to the historical park events helps fund free events and speakers throughout the year, Porter said. Donations are gladly welcomed.

"One of our primary goals is to educate the public on the history of Manatee and pioneer life in Florida," she said. "We have several programs throughout the year. Many are free."

To stay updated, sign up for the email list at www.manateeclerk.com/historical/manateevillage or like the park's Facebook page at facebook.com/manateehistoricalpark.

This story was originally published November 16, 2014 at 10:00 PM with the headline "Journalism Next | Manatee School of the Arts ."