NEW HOPE — A grant from the Bucks County Conference and Visitors Bureau has financed the production of a new video about the life and times of New Hope’s father, Benjamin Parry.
Produced by Kim Henning Bjorheim and John Weber of Delaware Valley Video, the film will star local actor and former board member of the New Hope Historical Society, Charlie Huchet.
”I must say that I was rather astonished when the Historical Society had asked me to play Benjamin Parry in the production, but the more I thought of it, the more the idea appealed to me,” he said.
He was prodded by board member, Roy Ziegler, on whose new book, “The Parrys of Philadelphia and New Hope,” the video has been based.
”When we began discussions about the role of Benjamin Parry, I almost immediately had thought of Charlie,” Mr. Ziegler said. “Maybe it was Charlie’s white hair and stature, but I really thought that he would be a good fit for the role, and I think when the video is shown, folks will agree.”
The video will be used to provide information about Mr. Parry and early New Hope for visitors to the Parry Mansion. It will be shown before they tour Parry’s home to give visitors an opportunity to learn about him and his town.
”We have tried to present this video with a touch of humor to make the history lesson enjoyable for all age groups,” Mr. Ziegler said. “I think it will surprise a lot of folks, but it is sure to entertain and educate at the same time.”
Ms. Henning Bjorheim and Mr. Weber produced the video tribute to longtime board member Dee Rosenwald for the society’s tribute to her on her 90th birthday celebration in 2010.
Mr. Huchet has acted in a number of stage productions in Bucks County, his latest role being that of President Grover Cleveland in the Friends of the Delaware Canal 2011 “Faces and Places” tour.
The premier of the video will be held March 4 at 5 p.m. at the Benjamin Parry Day celebration at the Parry Mansion. The event is free to members of the New Hope Historical Society. Admission is $15 for others.

