Carol Fisher Linn
Do you love Charleston or Savannah? Then you’ll love The Chautauqua Institution.
If you are a local, you know that summertime is Chautauqua Institution season. If you are not from here, perhaps this article will give you a better idea of what it’s all about. Although many people visit to enjoy scheduled arts performances (nationally acclaimed performers like comedian Lewis Black or Jazz Ambassadors of the Army Field Band) or to hear well-known speakers on topics at all ends of the spectrum, they may be unaware of the variety of opportunities Chautauqua offers outside of the 4,400 seat outdoor, covered amphitheater, which, incidentally, holds the Massey organ, the largest outdoor pipe organ in the world (5640 pipes!). Chautauqua is so much more – it is not merely a place or a venue – it is a memorable experience.
Chautauqua’s website provided this information: “Designated both a National Historic District because of the characteristics of Chautauqua, the place, it is also designated as a National Historic Landmark because of its contribution to American culture … If the physical archetype for traditional neighborhood developments in the United States is colonial Charleston, Savannah, or Annapolis, the holistic prototype has always been Chautauqua … Its appeal derives not from its historical quaintness, but from its relevance to life today.”
may be historic, but it is also cutting edge.
The historic homes and gardens are worth the trip on their own. Chautauqua may be historic, but it is also cutting edge. Founded in 1874 as a summer get-away dedicated to religious out-of-school vacation time learning for Sunday-school teachers, it has enlarged its focus exponentially. Many came by steamboat landing in the location of the Bell Tower and Palestine Park (another gem to be appreciated); today the Chautauqua Belle takes guests around the lake. 7500 visitors or permanent residents are on the grounds daily throughout the Chautauqua 9-week “season,” 100,000 participate in scheduled events and, yearly, over 8,000 students enroll in the Chautauqua Summer Schools where they learn about art, music, dance, theater, writing skills and a wide variety of special interests in an incredibly beautiful 750-acre outdoor environment.
Music and a symphony orchestra joined the seasonal repertoire in 1920. The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1929, now performs thrice weekly with leading soloists in the Amphitheater, Chautauqua’s program center. Popular entertainers perform other evenings. The Chautauqua Opera Company also made its debut in 1929.
Chautauqua is intergenerational so there is something for everyone. As a recent visitor said in their review, “Where else can you go in the US that is so safe that you don’t need to lock your doors or bikes up, even at night?” (Yes, it is a gated facility.) They then raved about “youth programs, lectures, concerts, plays, classes, park activities…”
In speaking with Emily Morris, Chief Brand Officer at Chautauqua, she said this: “you can bring a family of diverse interest and ages here. Attend a lecture, participate in youth programs for all ages, golf, play tennis, sail, swim, work out, and enjoy entertainment every single night at the amphitheater. Whatever you want, there is something for everyone, all ages. Frankly, we have an embarrassment of riches here. Yes, it does sound idyllic. We’ve been told there is almost too much to do.”
Chautauqua is truly an experience. Their historic, foundational pillars are everywhere. Try movement and meditation, take a Palestine Park tour, bring your animal for a blessing, participate in sacred song services or a piano program play-off, enjoy Puccini or a night at the symphony, enjoy the classic sounds of Bonnie Raitt, learn about the Delta Blues from Morgan Freeman (face it, he can say the alphabet and I’d want to be there to hear that soothing mesmerizing voice) or rock with Counting Crows. (Check out their incredible, jam-packed schedule online.) Or, just stroll through the grounds, eat a meal and wander through the galleries and shops.
I close with another comment from a visitor: “Chautauqua is a wholly unique experience that seeks to refresh the body, mind, and spirit. With lectures, concerts, and many other resources in a beautiful setting, Chautauqua challenges and inspires.”
And it’s been at it for 151 years!
For a FREE sneak peek (Nature tours) of birds, trees, gardens and the lake at Chautauqua Institution access ExploreCHQ app. Save it to your phone and visit often. Better still, go online (www.chq.org) and book your stay. Still undecided? Get a free taste every Sunday when entrance to the grounds is free.