Bringing John Burns to Life: A Conversation with Stephen Lang

Join acclaimed actor Stephen Lang (Gettysburg, Gods and Generals, Avatar) for a special conversation exploring his upcoming portrayal of famous Gettysburg resident John L. Burns in director Bo Brinkman’s new film, Gettysburg, 1863.

Lang will reflect on what drew him to Burns’s remarkable story, how he approaches embodying historical figures, and what it means to return to Gettysburg more than three decades after his iconic role in Gettysburg (1993). Lang will be joined on stage by historian Timothy H. Smith, Burns’s biographer, and Andrew Dalton, President & CEO of Gettysburg History.

John L. Burns was one of Gettysburg’s most famous residents. At age 69, he took up arms on July 1, 1863, fighting bravely alongside Union soldiers before being wounded multiple times and crawling back to town. Burns later met Abraham Lincoln during his famous visit in November 1863, becoming a national symbol of courage and patriotism.

This conversation offers a rare opportunity to explore how history, memory, and performance come together to bring one of Gettysburg’s most famous figures to life.

Pre-registration is required.  Price is $20 for Gettysburg History (ACHS) Members and $30 for Non-Members.  Proceeds support Gettysburg History and the Gettysburg Film Commission.