Now in its 30th year, Hays Arts Council FAMOUS FIGURES is a living history and performance project open to 5th grade students in Ellis County public & private schools.  It involves a short performance as a favorite person (living or deceased) from the present through distant past.  The project promotes the use of research skills, awareness and appreciation of the qualities of a positive role model, thinking and writing in a creative manner, and developing acting and public speaking skills.  This year's Famous Figures Final Competition was held on Friday, May 1 in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. We are proud to have this annual project sponsored by the Hays Rotary Club and HAC operational funding support from the Kansas Arts Commission 

link to 2026 details, rules, & judging form