Week Eight: August 12–19, 2023
Every summer, over the course of nine weeks, more than 100,000 people visit Chautauqua Institution in search of respite, community and personal growth. And every summer, they find it. See for yourself what makes Chautauqua Institution a destination like no other. Keep scrolling to explore Week Eight.
Featured Entertainment and Events
Girl Named Tom
August 18
Bassem Youssef
August 16
The Washington Ballet with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
August 12
Chautauqua Chamber Music: Balourdet Quartet with Adam Sadberry
August 14
Chautauqua Lecture Series
Freedom of Expression, Imagination, and the Resilience of Democracy
Experiments in democratic society are enduring challenge and criticism the world over; yet democracy persists. Despite glaring imperfections that manifest as social unrest, community distress, and political crisis, the democratic ideal remains a beacon of hope and an example of resilience. This week explores the hallmark of democracy — freedom of expression — to better understand and appreciate its role in preserving and advancing democracy. We will also explore imagination as one of the most powerful tools of expression. Interdisciplinary and intergenerational experiences in the arts, religion, education and recreation — Chautauqua’s signature method — will guide us in this weeklong celebration of diverse perspectives and aspirations for what may well be democracy’s most closely held values and privileges.
Founding director of the Institute on the Arts and Civic Dialogue, Anna Deavere Smith returns to the Chautauqua Lecture Series on Tuesday, Aug. 15, in a week dedicated to freedom of expression and imagination in all its forms as the bedrock of a resilient, ideal democracy. An advocate for free speech and free minds, psychologist and SNF Agora Institute Visiting Fellow Pamela Paresky teaches habits necessary for contributing to and thriving in a liberal, pluralist democracy; on Wednesday, Aug. 16, she presents a critical assessment of current obstacles to a flourishing liberal democracy and an outline of what we can and must do to overcome them. A pillar in the field of political investigative journalism, Pulitzer Prize winner and associate editor of The Washington PostBob Woodward will speak Thursday, Aug. 17, discussing truth, power, and the critical, necessary role of the Fourth Estate in a flourishing democracy. Two of the greatest political strategists in recent American history and foremost commentators on-air today, David Axelrod and Karl Rove have shaped the trajectories of their respective parties; on Friday, Aug. 18, they consider together the future of the American political system and what must be done to ensure its continued resilience.
*Oct. 19 Update: The original theme for Week Eight, “Exploring the Transformative Power of Music with Renée Fleming,” has been postponed to 2024 (precise dates to be announced in June).
Confirmed Lectures
August 18 @ 10:45 am Week Eight (August 12–19)
David Axelrod & Karl Rove
Amphitheater | CHQ Assembly
Interfaith Lecture Series
Freedom of Religious Expression
The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States begins with religious liberty; the freedom to practice one’s faith is essential to democratic practice and imagination. Likewise, the pluralism and social good that arise with religious freedom are dependent upon an environment of openness and inclusion – no one tradition being established or favored over any other. This week’s lecturers will address the state of religious liberty today, and the value of religious expression to the thriving of democratic society.
Confirmed Lectures
Stay tuned for upcoming announcements.
Explore Performing and Visual Arts
The arts can sometimes bridge differences and illuminate perspectives as no other method can. Artistic expressions at Chautauqua — including professional and pre-professional offerings in classical and contemporary music, theater, opera, dance, visual arts and literary arts — aim to inspire, educate, entertain and engage a diverse and growing audience.
Places to Stay
Make the night complete by staying on our historic grounds. From the Athenaeum Hotel to countless private rental properties, Chautauqua offers accommodations for all needs and tastes.
Dining & Shopping
Make your Chautauqua experience memorable! Share a delicious meal at one of our many restaurants. Or take piece of Chautauqua home with you from our unique shops.