Historian, Actor, Writer

Background

Gary M. Gray, Ed.D. is a historian, actor and writer renowned for his brilliant and historically accurate portrayals of eight of America’s greatest citizens. His performances have received acclaimed reviews and standing ovations. Dr. Gray holds graduate degrees from Phillips University, Southern Methodist and Notre Dame, along with a doctorate from Oklahoma State University. He has performed/lectured in every state and worldwide, and taught at Phillips University and Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Dr. Gray is the author of eleven books and the former publisher and editor of two national magazines.

He is the author of MR. PRESIDENTS: Voices of Freedom, Equality, and Dignity (Presidential Press, ISBN: 0-9774194-0-1), available at bookstores everywhere. The book features nine historical “moments in time” featuring George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Johnson, James A. Garfield, Theodore Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt (with Erma Stewart as the first lady), and General Douglas MacArthur.

Main Focus

Portrayed by Dr. Gray, each president and historical figure was developed from exhaustive research. Not only is the life story presented, but the basic beliefs and values of the chief executive or leader during times and issues of crisis. Small details add color, as when Theodore Roosevelt kills a rattlesnake with a whip during the "Great Wolf Hunt" of 1905, or Garfield defends Christianity in an epic creation vs. evolution debate in 1858.

Offerings

George Washington preparing to assume the first presidency in 1789; Andrew Johnson facing impeachment defends the Union and the Constitution in 1868; James A. Garfield making his last public comments in 1881; Teddy Roosevelt blustering about his Western exploits and contributions in 1910, and FDR speaking to the nation during the dark days of 1942.

In each snapshot depicted by Dr. Gary M. Gray, these patriots demonstrated great courage amidst physical danger during crucial moments in our nation’s history. Washington was shot at often during the French and Indian and the Revolutionary Wars. Angry Secessionists tried to kill Johnson as he sought to leave Tennessee in 1861 and return to his seat in the U.S. Senate. Garfield, a minister and educator by trade, rose to be a two-star general and fought in two of the Civil War’s greatest battles. TR led the charge up the San Juan Hills and later was shot while campaigning in 1912. FDR survived (although the mayor of Chicago did not) an assassination attempt in 1933. Of the five, only Garfield was to die from bullets.

Yet it is each one’s love for their country that makes these snapshots so valuable to audiences today. Each one had a vision for America and sought to lead it to a higher level than before. Each believed, within the societal norms of the day, in freedom, equality, dignity, and healing. Each provide a snapshot into history that will inspire Americans today.

Gary’s Chautauqua-style portrayals include: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Johnson, James A. Garfield, Theodore Roosevelt, FDR, General Douglas MacArthur, and Barry Goldwater.

Availability

If you are planning a conference or convention that focuses on American courage, patriotism, and vision, let Gary arrange for an American President or leader to deliver a stirring address.  He is available for venues throughout the United States.

Fee

Negotiable