Living History Testimonials
Augustin Fresnel: Through A New Lens
Joseph Smith is a magical artist who gives his portrayals in such a unique manner that he makes the audience feel that they have gone back in time!
Forty five minutes of a brilliant, passionate and entertaining performance! He leaves the audience in awe and they want to hear more!
- Marge Ellenberger
Director, Michigan Lighthouse Festival
Mr. Fresnel to Mr. Smith..."please tell my story." Not only has Joseph Smith done just that, his performance is so stellar and accurately portrayed that it makes one feel as if they actually have had the chance to meet and talk with Augustin Fresnel in the present. In some incredible way that words cannot adequately explain, the audience has indeed met Mr. Fresnel through such a timeless performance. Bravo Joseph Smith!
- Bob Trapani, Jr.
Executive Director, American Lighthouse Foundation
Philip Freneau: Poet of the American Revolution
“The American Revolution Roundtable of New York had a unique experience: a reincarnation of one of the American Revolution’s most original eyewitnesses, Philip Freneau.
Joseph (as Freneau) had a lot to say & he started saying it vigorously, brilliantly, wittily, before our goggled eyes & amazed ears for the next 45 enthralling minutes. The applause was thunderous & sustained...It was our Round Table’s way of saying thanks for this chance to not merely hear about history, but to live it.”
-Thomas Fleming, Author
Joseph Smith, Performing Artist of Living History as Philip Freneau 2012 New Jersey State History Fair.
Photo credit: Jonathan Carlucci
Island Anthologies
"Joseph Smith is truly passionate about the history and "soul" of his subject. He is true to his cause of faithfully and consummately bringing his subject matter and character back to life so the
audience will feel as if they really KNEW the character in their
time of existence.”
- Rob, Teacher
Staten Island's History now: William T. Davis
“Joe has blended together character, substance & humor to sculpt a portrait that is alive & moving.”
- Ed Wiseman, Executive Director (2008-2017), Staten Island Historical Society/Historic Richmondtown