Week Five: July 25–August 1, 2026
Every summer Chautauqua Institution welcomes over 100,000 visitors, to celebrate community and prioritize personal growth. Many travel here to relax, renew and recharge on the shores of Chautauqua Lake. Join us and see for yourself why Chautauqua was, and continues to be, a cherished destination Keep scrolling to explore Week Five’s Theme: Art and Artists Against the Odds.
Featured Entertainment and Events
Chautauqua Opera Conservatory with the Music School Festival Orchestra “L’Enfant Prodigue & Les Mamelles de Tiresias”
July 27
Chautauqua Theater Company Performances
Various Dates
Chautauqua Lecture Series
Art and Artists Against the Odds
Behind every celebrated work of art is a story of persistence. In this week, Chautauqua spotlights the uphill journeys of artists who’ve carved out visibility and voice in a world where creative paths are rarely straight or simple. What systems shape which artists rise and which are overlooked? We’ll explore the realities of the art world — from the influence of gatekeepers and geography to how race, class and access impact who gets seen and supported. Through the lens of Chautauqua’s proud history as an incubator of emerging artistic talent, we’ll celebrate the grit, imagination and community that fuel creative expression — and ask what it takes to keep making meaningful work in an ever-shifting cultural landscape.
Interfaith Lecture Series
The Creative Spirit: Art, Resilience and the Soulful Work of Making
Art has long served as a vessel for spiritual expression, resistance and healing. This week celebrates artists whose work emerges from struggle, faith and resilience. How do religious narratives inspire creative courage? How do marginalized artists draw on spiritual resources to persist? And what does it mean to understand creativity as a sacred calling?
Weekly Chaplain
The Rev. Zina Jacque
The Rev. Zina Jacque serves as President and Chair of the Board of National Senior Communities, overseeing the largest not-for-profit network of continuing-care retirement communities in the nation. Across two distinguished careers in higher education and ministry, she has worked to lift people, strengthen communities, and send good into the world. She continues to guide nonprofit boards and faith-based organizations nationwide.
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
If you love the events you see in Week Five, ensure you have accommodations. Space on the ground is limited, and accommodations go fast find reservations at the Hotel or Private Accommodations.
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.