Historic Mount Vernon Interpreter Cast as Washington in ‘American Miracle’
When Daniel Shippey, a Washington historian and interpreter, searched for ways to educate people about America’s founding he discovered the world of first person historical interpretation. He contacted Dean Malissa, the country’s most renowned George Washington impersonator. Dean graciously advised Daniel and pointed him in the right direction to understand the person being represented and how each interpreter brings their own insight and voice to that representation.
Shippey founded an educational nonprofit (now part of the Southwest Living History Association) focused on teaching the history of American Liberty. Educational and entertainment programs encourage appreciation of the principles of the United States. He began impersonating Washington in 2008.
When Mount Vernon needed a new George Washington impersonator, Shippey went through a year of auditioning before being selected. He held the post of Official Presenter of George Washington for a number of years. While in that role he was contacted by the production team of The American Miracle and asked to submit an audition video. He accepted the role before he knew much beyond the title and the book on which it was based.
The American Miracle, a Heroic Pictures Film, directed by Tim Mahoney will release in movie theaters nationwide the week before Father’s Day, June 9,10, and 11 only. Starring along side Shippey are Pat Boone, Kevin Sorbo, James Arnold Taylor, Nicole C. Mullen, and Cameron Arnett.
Family Affair
Dan’s wife Kelly had portrayed Martha Washington since Dan started in 2008. As the film prepared to shoot a conflict in schedules arose with the actress originally slated to play Martha in The American Miracle. Videos of Kelly as Martha became her audition leading to her being cast as well.
On set is when Daniel had the first notion of how much the film is faith-based. Each filming day began with prayer. He thought “I know why I’m here now.” Every day of filming was different from and past film experience. He saw the difference from days in Hollywood in commercial film that began at age eighteen. All through the filming Daniel found it amazing to see that things that did not seem possible were made possible.
One example of God opening doors took place at Mount Vernon. TAM was allowed to film in places previously restricted. In George Washington’s office the production company was told no one is allowed to sit in the replica of George Washington’s chair, or sit at his desk, but while filming, Tim’s production company received approval for both.
READ: How Washington Shaped Modern Leadership
The couple’s other skills also came into play. Kelley was a competitive equestrian from age seven to twenty-three and trained Daniel to ride. In one scene based on a true account, Washington rides between the British force and the Colonial Army.
Daniel said that in studying Washington he realized the combination of his faith as a child and stoic philosophy shaped his character and that daring choice. He would have believed that ‘whether you live or die is in the hands of the divine.’ The only choice is whether you are going to do what is right. Then there is no fear.
He acts, writes, coaches, directs, and has worked in commercial film and theater companies. Kelly continues to portray Martha Washington as they tour around the country in their roles. Daniel’s hope is to impart a sense of George Washington’s character and what he wanted for our nation and people.
Washington wanted Americans to be people of virtue and worthy of God’s blessings. What he considered most important was civic virtue, gratitude, and unity, for he believed that would preserve our liberties for future generations.
The movie adds the voices of expert historians to validate the historical truths depicted. Filmmaker Tim Mahoney hopes this forgotten story and its true portrayal of our founding patriots and the miracles that helped win independence will inspire Americans to study and follow the ideals of those who fought for freedom in this country.
To learn more go to www.AmericanMiracleMovie.com
–Karen Whiting | Special to Metro Voice
