"When I was a kid, I use to come to Hershey for school trips; now kids on school trips are coming to see me," said Pvt. Eric J. Chapka, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and Spirit of America narrator. "I love visiting Hershey!"
Chapka, 19-year old Beach Lake, Pa. native, was selected to be one of the narrators for the 2014 Spirit of America performances.
Spirit of America is a highly visual, live-action U.S. Army show featuring Soldiers in historical uniforms re-enacting key moments in the U.S. Army and American history. The re-enactments include battle scenes with short periods of simulated gunfire and performances by the Army's elite ceremonial units.
"I initially tried out for a World War II scene character, but I got a call saying I was selected to be a narrator," said Chapka. "I didn't expect to get such a significant part. I was really excited."
Chapka has more than 21 separate speaking parts throughout each show. Upon his selection, in July this year, he and the rest of the cast rehearsed five days a week until the start of the first show on September 12 in Boston, Mass.
"I've always been comfortable speaking to crowds," said Chapka. "Memorizing all of my lines was pretty difficult, but four of us [narrators] sat down and worked together to get all of our lines down."
Chapka performs in front of thousands of enthusiastic guests during each performance and calmly says it is exciting work, but quickly adds that the Hershey show is even more exciting because the show is in his home state.
"I'm happy we're performing in Hershey," said Chapka. "The best part is that my mom, dad, sister and brother are coming out to watch the performance. I never thought I'd join the Army and be a narrator in such a neat show. I definitely love every moment."
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