Saturday, April 27, 2024 11 AM

Lower Level Tarzian Media Room

Belmar Public Library

Portrayed by Historian/Actor

Bob Gleason

of the

American Historical Theatre

Writing most of his greatest works while living in Philadelphia, Edgar Allan Poe flourished here for more than 6 years. Exposing the inner machinations of the human mind and heart, Bob Gleason’s Edgar Allan Poe provides vivid images, terrifying tales, and heart-thumping excitement.

But Gleason’s portrayal doesn’t stop there. He reveals the literary editor and critic determined to mine his mind and profit from his published works. We learn that Poe is considered the inventor of the detective story, providing the reason for the award being dubbed the Edgar. And we discover the all-too-human Poe, the passionate poet, the intense husband, the haunted soul.

ABOUT THE ACTOR

Bob Gleason has a degree in Theatre Arts from West Chester University. He has performed on stage, screen, television, radio, and in opera and ballet (Peter and the Wolf). While serving in the U.S. Army he toured Europe with the 7th Army Soldiers Chorus. In-depth historical research and audience interactivity have become hallmarks of Mr. Gleason’s historical portrayals.

Since 1991, Bob Gleason has been AHT’s “go to guy” – If you need it, Bob can do it! Over the years, Mr. Gleason has been featured at the White House Visitor’s Center, Ford’s Theatre, the National Archives, the Library of Congress, the Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution, Constitution Hall, the National Constitution Center, Independence Hall, Mask & Wig, Elder Hostels, Bartram’s Garden, Betsy
Ross’ House, the General Warren Inn, and the Freedoms Foundation of Valley Forge.

Bob has been especially popular at schools, museums, historic sites and libraries throughout the United States.

Bob has presented programs featuring nearly 150 historical figures, stretching over 2000 years of history.  He lives near Lansdale, PA with his wife of 35+ years, and a large stock of costumes, props, and books.